Chattooga High School (CHS) basketball fans will get their first look at the 2023-2024 girls’ and boys’ teams next Tuesday, November 11th, during the annual Red and Black Scrimmage at CHS. The intersquad matchup serves as an important kick-off to the new season, inviting the entire community to meet the athletes.

The scrimmage games are scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM next Tuesday evening. The Lady Indians will take the court first, followed immediately by the boys’ team.

This highly anticipated event offers a spirited, casual atmosphere for coaches to evaluate their rosters and for the community to show early support for the players who will be representing the school this season.

Unique Donation Drive Replaces Gate Fee

While admission to the Red and Black Scrimmage is completely free, the basketball program is utilizing the event as a creative way to gather essential supplies for the athletes as they embark on a demanding season schedule.

Instead of charging a traditional gate fee, the teams are asking families and attendees who are able and willing to consider donating practical items at the door.

The suggested donation items include:

• Tide Pods (for uniform cleaning)
• A case of bottled water
• A 6-pack of Gatorade

These contributions will directly help provide for the players’ needs throughout the season, ensuring they are well-hydrated and their uniforms remain clean for every contest.

“We would love to invite everyone to come watch our intersquad scrimmage next Tuesday night,” a team spokesperson stated. “This is a great way for the community to meet these athletes that will be representing our school this season and help us prepare for the challenges ahead.”

Community members are encouraged to fill the stands, support the teams, and help stock the necessary supplies for the upcoming winter season.

Event Details

What: Chattooga High School Red and Black Scrimmage Who: CHS Girls’ and Boys’ Basketball Teams When: Next Tuesday, November 11th, starting at 6:00 PM Where: Chattooga High School Gymnasium Admission: Free; voluntary donation of Tide Pods, water, or Gatorade requested

Submitted by Robert Beach – Chattooga County School District Chief Academic Officer

Residents of Chattooga County can now receive their flu vaccinations for the upcoming 2025-2026 season. Local public health departments and pharmacies across the area have begun offering the shot, with health officials urging early vaccination for optimal protection against the seasonal influenza virus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone six months of age and older. Getting vaccinated is a critical step in preventing illness or significantly reducing the severity of flu symptoms, hospitalizations, and deaths.

Where to Get Vaccinated:

Flu shots are readily available and convenient for Chattooga County residents:

• Local Health Departments: Contact your nearest Chattooga County public health department to confirm specific hours, appointment availability, and any walk-in options. They are a reliable source for vaccinations and public health information.
• Area Pharmacies: Many pharmacies throughout Chattooga County are also offering flu vaccinations. It’s advisable to check with your preferred pharmacy for their schedule and any specific requirements.

Important Information for the 2025-2026 Flu Season:

• Who Should Get Vaccinated: The CDC emphasizes that nearly everyone aged 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine. This includes pregnant women, older adults, young children, and individuals with certain chronic health conditions who are at higher risk of serious flu complications.
• Vaccine Effectiveness: The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the influenza viruses most likely to be circulating during the upcoming season. While it doesn’t guarantee 100% immunity, it is highly effective at preventing illness and, for those who do get flu, making symptoms much milder and preventing severe outcomes.
• Optimal Timing: Health officials strongly advise receiving your flu shot by the end of October. This timing ensures your body has developed full immunity—which typically takes about two weeks—before flu activity traditionally peaks between December and February. However, if you miss the October window, getting vaccinated later in the season still provides valuable protection and is always encouraged.
• Cost and Accessibility: Concerns about cost should not be a barrier to protection. Most major insurance plans cover the flu vaccine with little to no co-pay. For individuals without insurance, public health departments and some clinics offer low-cost options or a cash price to ensure accessibility for all community members.

As Chattooga County looks ahead to the cooler months, getting your annual flu shot is a simple yet powerful step to protect yourself, your family, and the wider community from the seasonal influenza virus. Don’t wait – make plans to get vaccinated

The Walker County Landfill will host Retire Your Tires Amnesty Day today, Saturday, November 8th, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Free disposal is available for car and light truck tires (20 inches or smaller) and ATV tires, which must be dismounted, dry, and clean. Only Walker County residents can participate, requiring proof of residency. There’s a limit of 15 tires per vehicle, and a satellite drop-off location is available in north Walker County. The event has removed over 30,000 tires since 2017, recycling them into products like industrial fuel. The Retire Your Tires Amnesty Day event is made possible thanks to a grant from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division’s Local Government Scrap Tire Abatement Reimbursement (STAR) Program. This grant reimburses Walker County for the cost of transporting and processing scrap tires. The grant is funded from Georgia’s Solid Waste Trust Fund, which consumers pay into when purchasing new tires in Georgia.

Summerville Main Street is hosting a community celebration today, Saturday, November 8, called “Salute To The Troops. ” This event, held at the Summerville Depot from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., will honor local service members and feature the last arrival of the historic passenger train for the fall season. The event highlights a veterans exhibit with photos and memorabilia curated by family and friends. A recognition ceremony will occur at 1:45 p.m. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Passenger Train will arrive at 1:00 p.m., followed by a demonstration of the Summerville Turntable. Food and craft vendors will also be present. The event is free and family-friendly.

Georgians are bracing for an abrupt end to mild fall weather this weekend as a powerful cold front is set to send temperatures plummeting by nearly 40 degrees, bringing the first widespread freeze of the season. Following weekend rains, the mercury will drop sharply late Sunday into Monday, with residents urged to take immediate action to protect plants, pipes, and pets.

The dramatic shift will see temperatures fall by as much as 50 degrees in parts of Northwest Georgia, marking a swift transition from unseasonably warm conditions. Wind chills are expected to sink into the 20s and 30s across much of the state on Monday and Tuesday, making for a distinctly winter-like feel. Forecasters even suggest the possibility of a few snow flurries on Monday, with more sustained snow showers possible in higher elevations.

This sudden cold snap will significantly impact Veterans Day events scheduled for Monday morning, as well as the morning commutes, which could be slick in northern parts of the state.

With the first hard freeze on the horizon, Georgians are urged to prepare now rather than wait until temperatures plunge. Here’s how to get ready:

Protecting Your Home & Garden

Plants and Gardens: Gardeners should bring sensitive potted plants indoors now, or move them to garages, sunrooms, or enclosed porches. For plants that can’t be moved, cover them with frost cloths, old sheets, or light blankets, avoiding direct plastic contact as it can transfer cold and cause damage. Watering plants before the freeze will also help, as moist soil retains heat better than dry soil, protecting roots overnight.
Pipes: To prevent burst pipes, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and spigots. Shut off and drain any outdoor spigots if possible. Exposed pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces or garages should be insulated with pipe insulation, towels, or foam sleeves. Inside, allow indoor faucets to slowly drip overnight Monday and Tuesday to relieve pressure in the lines.
Heating System: Before the cold hits, test your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s working properly. Replace dirty filters for better airflow and efficiency, and don’t forget to check and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Caring for Pets & Livestock

Shelter and Bedding: Ensure all pets are brought inside or have access to well-insulated shelters with dry bedding. Livestock should be provided with windbreaks or enclosed barns.
Water Supply: Replace metal water bowls with plastic ones and check frequently to prevent water from freezing.

Driving Safely

Black Ice Alert: Motorists should exercise extreme caution, especially during Monday and Tuesday morning commutes. While the ground may still be warm, wet roads from the weekend rain could refreeze, creating dangerous black ice, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and in shaded areas.
Slow Down: Slow down and increase following distances, especially in North Georgia and the mountain counties, where slick conditions are most likely.

Community & Personal Safety

Dress for the Cold: For those attending Veterans Day events, dress warmly in layers, including gloves and hats, as wind chills will make it feel significantly colder, possibly in the 20s and 30s.
Check on Neighbors: Communities are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors or those without adequate heating, who are especially vulnerable during early freezes.
Farmers and Gardeners: Consider covering late-season crops or harvesting what you can before Sunday night’s temperature plunge.

With the cold front rapidly approaching, authorities urge Georgians to complete all preparations by Sunday evening to ensure safety and minimize potential damage from the season’s first hard freeze.

The Summerville Middle School Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter is launching a Thanksgiving Donation Drive to support families in need. The initiative, spearheaded by three dedicated 8th-grade FFA members as part of their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects, aims to ensure that more residents in the Chattooga County area can enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving meal.

Recognizing the challenges many families are currently facing, these young FFA members felt compelled to take action. Their Thanksgiving food drive will collect non-perishable food items that will be distributed to the Christian Renewal Center (CRC) Chattooga, a local organization dedicated to assisting those in the community.

“During these tough times for many, our students are noticing and want to help out with the upcoming holiday,” stated a representative from the SMS FFA.

Donations can be dropped off at Summerville Middle School. A designated collection box will be conveniently located by the front doors, making it easy for community members to contribute. The drive will officially kick off tomorrow and will continue through Wednesday, November 19th. Notably, the donation box will also be accessible over the weekend, offering ample opportunity for participation.

The FFA students are encouraging anyone who feels led to contribute to bring non-perishable food items such as canned goods, pasta, rice, stuffing mixes, gravy, and other essential Thanksgiving staples. Their collective effort underscores the FFA’s commitment to not only agricultural education but also to fostering responsible citizenship and community engagement among its members.

This Thanksgiving Donation Drive is a powerful reminder of the impact that young people can have when they are inspired to make a difference. The Summerville Middle School FFA invites everyone to join them in spreading gratitude and generosity this holiday season.

Shane Jacquces Barfield, a man from Northwest Georgia with a history of felony convictions and domestic abuse, has been sentenced to federal prison for possessing a firearm unlawfully.

U. S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated that Barfield endangered the lives of police and bystanders by firing a stolen gun. Thanks to the Cartersville Police Department and the FBI, Barfield received a significant prison sentence without parole.

On September 17, 2023, Barfield drove through Cartersville with a stolen gun and methamphetamine. After crashing his vehicle, he walked away with the gun, ignoring police orders to drop it. He fired at the police, who returned fire and arrested him, seizing the gun and drugs.

Barfield was sentenced to 10 years in prison on November 4, 2025, after pleading guilty to the charges against him. The case was investigated by the FBI and the Cartersville Police Department.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, November 7, 2025:

Northwest Georgia is looking towards a protracted period of wet weather, but residents and farmers are being warned to prepare for a drastic change, as an extreme cold snap is set to follow the persistent rain, bringing temperatures down by nearly 50 degrees and delivering the first hard freeze of the season early next week.

The immediate forecast calls for mostly sunny skies today in Chattooga County and surrounding areas with a slight chance of rain headed into the weekend, driven by a stubborn and slow-moving low-pressure system.

Low-Pressure System Prolongs Moisture

The key factor dictating the current unsettled conditions is the sluggish eastward movement of the persistent low-pressure system. This system’s slow progress has extended the period of moisture and rain over the region for multiple days.

Forecasters note that the system features a potent counter-clockwise rotation, which acts like a pump, actively pulling warm, moist air directly from the Gulf of Mexico into North Georgia. This continuous influx of moisture is responsible for the repeated rounds of rain and the extended period of gloomy weather expected to last through the weekend and into Monday.

“The combination of a persistent low-pressure system and continuous moisture flow means we aren’t getting a break from the showers,” explained a local meteorologist. “This extended rainy period has been unusually resilient due to how slowly the system is shifting.”

Historic Temperature Plunge Expected

While residents are currently dealing with saturated ground, the focus of the forecast shifts dramatically after the weekend as a major cold front sweeps across the state.

Following the departure of the low-pressure system and the rain, a meteorological whiplash is imminent. High temperatures earlier this week reached the upper 70s, but the incoming arctic air mass is projected to cause temperatures to crash by nearly 50 degrees within a 48-hour period.

The most severe cold is expected Monday night into Tuesday morning. Lows are forecast to dip substantially into the 20s by early Tuesday, marking the region’s first widespread hard freeze.

Farmers and homeowners are advised to take necessary precautions now to protect sensitive vegetation and outdoor plumbing ahead of the expected deep freeze.

Strong Winds and Cold Chills

The arrival of the cold snap will be accompanied by strong winds, which will exacerbate the perception of the cold.

Even with daytime highs struggling to reach the 40s early next week, wind chill factors are expected to keep many areas feeling like the 30s.

While the dramatic temperature drop might suggest the possibility of winter precipitation, widespread measurable snow is not anticipated. However, some of the highest elevations in Northwest Georgia could see a few isolated flurries on Monday as the coldest air rushes in. Forecasters stress that no accumulation or travel issues are expected from these minor flurries.

In summary, residents face two distinct weather challenges over the coming days: persistent, heavy rain through Monday, followed immediately by an extreme shift to freezing temperatures and hard frost conditions by Tuesday morning.

A fire reported Thursday at the Hitachi Astemo commercial manufacturing plant in Rock Spring, Walker County, prompted a multi-agency response under the Tri-State Mutual Aid agreement.

Emergency crews were dispatched to the facility, located at 216 Thacker Drive, after reports of a fire within the commercial plant. The incident resulted in turnout from fire departments across the region, highlighting the collaborative efforts of local first responders.

Responding agencies included firefighters from Walker County, Catoosa County, and LaFayette Fire Departments. Their coordinated efforts showcased the effectiveness of the Tri-State Mutual Aid network, a system designed to pool resources from neighboring counties to handle larger or more complex incidents.

As part of the mutual aid protocol, the Trion Fire Department was called upon to provide coverage at the LaFayette Fire Department station during the incident. This arrangement ensures that local communities remain protected even when their primary firefighting resources are committed to another emergency.

As of Thursday evening, authorities had not released any information regarding the cause or extent of the fire.

The Chattooga Family Connection is proud to announce the upcoming 9th Annual “Home for the Holidays” Thanksgiving Food Distribution, an event that has become a cherished tradition in the community, tackling food insecurity and spreading holiday cheer.

For nearly a decade, the initiative has provided essential Thanksgiving provisions to families across Chattooga County, ensuring that more tables are set with festive meals during the holiday season. Maisha Ludy with Chattooga Family Connection expressed her gratitude and amazement at the longevity of the program.

“Can you believe it’s been 9 years? This year marks our 9th Annual Home for the Holidays Thanksgiving Food Distribution!” shared Ludy. “So grateful for the continued support and love that makes this event possible year after year.”

The drive-thru event welcomes anyone in need of food for the upcoming Thanksgiving Holiday. It will take place on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, at the Community Resource Center of Chattooga, located at 50 Eleanor Ave., Summerville, GA 30747.

The event’s convenient drive-thru format ensures easy access for all participants, allowing families to receive their holiday food items efficiently and with dignity. No pre-registration is required; community members are simply encouraged to drive through during the designated time.

The continued success of “Home for the Holidays” relies heavily on the generosity and volunteer spirit of the community. Chattooga Family Connection is actively seeking both donations and volunteers to assist with the event. Those interested in contributing to this vital effort, whether through financial gifts, food item donations, or by dedicating their time as a volunteer, are encouraged to contact Maisha Ludy directly or reach out via the Chattooga Family Connection’s Facebook Page.

As the Chattooga Family Connection celebrates nearly a decade of dedicated service through “Home for the Holidays,” the event stands as a testament to the power of community spirit and collective action in ensuring that every family has the opportunity to gather around a table overflowing with gratitude this Thanksgiving.

Event Details:

• What: 9th Annual “Home for the Holidays” Thanksgiving Food Distribution
• When: Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
• Where: Community Resource Center of Chattooga, 50 Eleanor Ave., Summerville, GA 30747
• Format: Drive-thru event, open to anyone in need.
• How to Help: Contact Maisha Ludy or the Chattooga Family Connection Facebook Page for donations or to v

Nearly 1.4 million Georgians, roughly one in eight of the state’s population, face an uncertain wait for their monthly food assistance as a protracted government shutdown disrupts the timely disbursement of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Many who expected their allotments on Wednesday, the 36th day of the shutdown, reported empty accounts.

Normally, SNAP deposits in Georgia begin on the fifth of each month, rolling out on odd dates to recipients through the 23rd. However, on Wednesday, the usual flow of funds came to a halt for many.

The delays stem from complex federal guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Tuesday, November 4. The agency announced it would provide states with $5 billion for SNAP this month – approximately half the normal funding. This substantial reduction necessitates states to recalibrate their systems to divide the reduced funding among recipients, a process expected to cause significant delays.

The problem is compounded by a tumultuous legal and political backdrop. The Trump administration initially stated it would not issue SNAP benefits during the shutdown, prompting two federal lawsuits. Judges subsequently ordered the administration to comply. However, in a Monday, November 3, filing in a U.S. District Court lawsuit, USDA official Patrick A. Penn warned of impending delays.

Adding to the confusion, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social on Tuesday, November 4, seemingly reversing course and indicating that SNAP benefits “will be given only when the Radical Left Democrats open up government.” However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later clarified that the administration was, in fact, complying with court orders, but that payments would be “prorated” from a contingency fund and would take time to process.

The Georgia Department of Human Services, responsible for disbursing benefits through a contractor, could not confirm precise deposit timelines on Wednesday afternoon. A spokesperson stated, “We are working with our federal partners for clarification and are also working with our vendor, and will provide updates as soon as any new developments occur.”

The extended wait poses a severe threat of hunger for the 1.4 million Georgians who depend on SNAP. In Chattooga County, nearly 20% of the population relies on these benefits, making the community particularly vulnerable to the disruption.

Georgia Trend magazine has selected Dr. Heidi Popham, president of Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC), as one of the magazine’s most influential leaders.

This year marks the fourth that Dr. Popham has been profiled in the “annual publication that spotlights the most powerful leaders across major industries and organizations” who impact Georgia, according to Georgia Trend. Popham was appointed president of GNTC by the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) in 2019; she has worked for GNTC for 30 years.

“Georgia Northwestern Technical College experienced another outstanding year, marked by increases in enrollment, strengthened community partnerships and enhanced student support services,” said Dr. Popham, adding that she attributes the success of the academic year to GNTC’s amazing team of faculty, staff and community partners.

GNTC’s effective class scheduling, targeted advertising and student success initiatives played pivotal roles in increasing overall enrollment by 10%, Dr. Popham said. GNTC’s commitment to student success is evident in its adoption of data-driven scheduling tools, leading to more efficient class offerings and improved student retention.

“Through the creation of new student scholarships and industry investments, community partnerships remain a key to GNTC’s success,” she said.

GNTC’s efforts in supporting military-connected students were recognized with the 2024-25 Military Friendly® School Gold designation, reflecting the college’s dedication to providing quality education and support services to veterans and their families.

Dr. Popham began her educational career at GNTC in 1995 as executive assistant to the president. In 2007, she became the director of Institutional Effectiveness and was soon promoted to vice president of Institutional Effectiveness in 2009. In the latter role, she coordinated the development of GNTC’s strategic plan, program goals, objectives and standards. Dr. Popham also served as GNTC’s accreditation liaison.

In 2016, Dr. Popham was promoted to executive vice president of GNTC. As executive vice president, Dr. Popham was responsible for Academic Affairs, Adult Education, Institutional Effectiveness, Student Affairs and Student Success.

She serves on various boards and advisory committees, which include several of the region’s College and Career Academies. Dr. Popham is a graduate of the TCSG Executive Leadership Academy, Leadership Rome and Leadership Dalton. She is also an active member of the Rome Rotary Club.

Dr. Popham earned a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Covenant College located in Lookout Mountain, a master’s degree from the University of Georgia and a doctoral degree from the University of Georgia.

Chattooga County voters delivered a decisive victory for local infrastructure and public safety this week, overwhelmingly approving both the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (T-SPLOST) and the Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST) referendums.

The successful passage of both measures signals a strong commitment by residents to improve the county’s roads, bridges, and emergency capabilities. According to information released Friday by the office of Sole Commissioner Andy Allen, the new sales taxes are scheduled to take effect in 2026. The Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST) will go into effect on January 1, 2026, followed by the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (T-SPLOST) on April 1, 2026.

Sole Commissioner Andy Allen expressed profound gratitude for the trust voters placed in the county’s plan for the new revenue streams.

“Chattooga voters made a clear investment in our county’s future by passing both the T-SPLOST and FLOST referendums,” stated Commissioner Allen. “These measures provide us with the revenue we need to repair and modernize roads and bridges, strengthen public safety, and support essential services that enhance the quality of life for every community in Chattooga.”

T-SPLOST Funding Targets Aging Infrastructure

The T-SPLOST, a dedicated sales tax approved solely for transportation projects, is expected to significantly address the county’s persistent challenges with aging infrastructure.

Officials anticipate that this funding will be crucial for necessary repairs, upgrades, and potentially new construction projects across Chattooga County. The primary goal of the T-SPLOST revenue is to improve overall traffic flow, enhance safety for motorists, and support commercial activity and economic development by ensuring reliable transportation corridors.

The commissioner’s office highlighted that the successful passage provides a sustainable mechanism to manage the county’s road and bridge systems without relying solely on property taxes.

FLOST to Offset Property Tax

The FLOST is designed to ease the burden of property tax and will be applied to the county’s tax digest.

A 64-year-old man faces multiple charges, including criminal trespass and obstruction of officers, after a confrontation early Tuesday morning resulted in a property owner firing a warning shot and holding the suspect at gunpoint until deputies arrived.

Jeffery Baxter Hines, 64, was arrested on October 29, 2025, after being found allegedly prowling on private property located at 146 Rose Cir, the site of Gary’s Towing impound lot. Hines was ultimately restrained by officers using a Taser after reportedly resisting arrest.

According to a report filed by Deputy G. Whitworth of the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, officers were dispatched around 2:00 AM to a call regarding a prowler who was being held at gunpoint.

Confrontation on Private Property

Upon arrival, Deputy Whitworth, Deputy A. Garmany, and Trion Police Officer Braden Peace observed property owner Gary Rape holding a firearm pointed toward Mr. Hines, who was seated on the ground in front of the fenced impound lot.

Mr. Rape, who owns the towing company, told officers that Mr. Hines had been previously trespassed from the property. He stated that his security cameras had been triggered, and he observed Mr. Hines prowling around his garage and near a vehicle parked outside the impound lot fence.

Mr. Rape retrieved his firearm after his wife, Rebecca Johnson, called 911. When he looked outside, he reported that Mr. Hines attempted to hide behind a parked vehicle.

The situation escalated when Mr. Rape gave verbal commands for Mr. Hines to get down. According to the report, Mr. Hines began approaching the armed property owner, leading Mr. Rape to fire a single shot in front of the suspect’s foot. At that point, Mr. Hines complied and sat on the ground, where he was held until law enforcement arrived.

Resistance Leads to Taser Deployment

When questioned by officers about his presence on the property at 2:00 AM, Mr. Hines allegedly stated he was just “walking on Rose Cir.” Deputy Whitworth noted in the report that Mr. Hines was located in the back area of the private property, not on the public roadway, and had “no business being there.”

Officers attempted to place Mr. Hines under arrest for Criminal Trespass and Loitering or Prowling. As Deputy Whitworth began restraining the suspect, Mr. Hines reportedly began resisting arrest, pulling away from all three officers present.

To gain control, the arresting officer conducted a leg sweep to bring Mr. Hines to the ground. During the struggle, Deputy Garmany reportedly deployed a Taser while the officers successfully restrained Mr. Hines’s wrists with handcuffs.

Mr. Hines was then assisted to his feet and transported to the Chattooga County Jail.

Jeffery Baxter Hines, 64, was booked on charges of:

Criminal Trespass
Loitering or Prowling
Obstruction of Officers (Misdemeanor)

Jackson Hospital in Montgomery, Alabama, has taken a critical step in its effort to avert closure, announcing a major leadership overhaul including the appointment of John Quinlivan, a familiar name in Northwest Georgia healthcare circles, as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Quinlivan, who previously served for many years as the CEO of Redmond Hospital (now AdventHealth Redmond) in Rome, Georgia, officially took the helm effective Monday. His immediate mandate is to guide the financially distressed facility out of bankruptcy and implement a comprehensive restructuring plan.

Jackson Hospital declared bankruptcy earlier this year after defaulting on approximately $60 million in bonds, leaving its future uncertain and sparking concerns across the Alabama River Region.

Quinlivan brings decades of experience, including overseeing hospital systems in Florida and Northwest Georgia, following a career in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps.

In a press release announcing his appointment, Quinlivan expressed cautious optimism about the hospital’s prospects.

“Jackson Hospital has been through tremendous challenges, but I’ve seen what’s possible when you combine caring, engaged leadership with dedicated staff to make the changes needed for the health and vitality of critical community facilities like this,” Quinlivan said.

“The foundation is here. Now we need to bring together the right plan, the right partnerships and relentless execution to ensure Jackson Hospital can continue serving Montgomery and the Alabama River Region.”

New Board Focused on Restructuring

The announcement of new leadership comes alongside significant changes to the hospital’s governance structure. The hospital also appointed three new members to its board of trustees—Charles Evans, Jeff Crudele, and Gary M. Murphey—all of whom specialize in either hospital management or company restructuring.

According to the hospital’s statement, the new board, which assumed leadership on October 31, 2025, is poised to bring “vital healthcare and financial competencies to guide the organization through restructuring, a feasible bankruptcy recovery plan, essential infrastructure repairs, payer contract improvements and operational resets.”

These leadership changes arrive as the hospital seeks a massive influx of public funding necessary for survival.

Funding Contingent on State Commitment

Jackson Hospital requires $50 million in combined public grants to stay open. Local governments have already stepped up, with both the Montgomery City Council and the Montgomery County Commission voting to provide a combined $25 million in grant money.

However, both local commitments are strictly contingent on the state of Alabama meeting the hospital’s remaining financial need—an additional $25 million.

The stability of the hospital’s leadership structure had been a key concern cited by state officials regarding any potential financial commitment.

In an October 22 statement, Mike Lewis, deputy communications director for Gov. Kay Ivey, emphasized the need for a viable long-term strategy before taxpayer funds are dedicated to the facility.

“The health and safety of citizens served by Jackson Hospital is of paramount concern to Governor Ivey, but so is the responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars,” Lewis said. “All options are currently under consideration, but any state financial support must be predicated by a responsible sustainability plan to ensure Jackson Hospital’s long-term viability.”

The hospital hopes that the appointment of Quinlivan and the experienced new board—focused heavily on financial recovery and system efficiency—will address the state’s demand for a credible sustainability plan and unlock the necessary state funding.

The landscape of Georgia high school athletics is set for a significant overhaul, as the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) has released proposed classifications for the 2026-2028 athletic cycle. The restructuring focuses heavily on unifying the smallest division, a move that is projected to elevate area schools, including Chattooga and Trion, into the new Class 2A designation.

While final assignments are subject to appeal, the change stems primarily from the GHSA’s decision to eliminate divisions within its smallest classification, functionally shifting the existing Class 1A-Division I (1A-DI) schools into the new Class 2A.

The End of Divided Class A

For the past several cycles, Class A was divided based on student enrollment into Division I (the larger schools) and Division II (the smaller schools). Under the proposed plan, these divisions will be eliminated, unifying Class A into a single designation for the state’s smallest schools.

The consequence of this unification is a cascading effect throughout the classification ladder:

1A-DI Becomes 2A: Schools previously classified as 1A-DI—including Chattooga and Trion—will now anchor the new Class 2A.
1A-DII Becomes Unified 1A: Schools previously in 1A-DII will make up the new, unified Class 1A.

For Chattooga and Trion, this means moving up a tier in classification and facing a new set of competitive challenges beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. Both schools have operated within the 1A-DI structure, and their projected move to 2A signifies a formal change in competition level, even if their student populations remain relatively stable.

System Renamed and Expanded

The classification shifts also necessitate a complete renaming of the classification structure across the board. The GHSA is expanding its upper tier, resulting in the largest classification being designated as Class 7A.

Previously, the largest classification was Class 6A, and the smallest was Class 1A Division II. The new structure simplifies the bottom end while expanding the top:

New Classification (2026-2028) Functional Equivalent (Previous Structure)
Class 7A (New Top Tier) Larger Schools (Previously 6A)
New Class 2A Former Class 1A Division I Schools
New Class 1A (Unified) Former Class 1A Division II Schools

GHSA Executive Director Jamey Martin noted that the changes aim to create more competitive equity while streamlining the administrative process for the state’s school regions.

Appeals Period Underway

It is crucial to note that the proposed classifications are not yet final. The GHSA maintains an appeal process allowing schools to formally challenge their placement based on enrollment data or unique geographic criteria.

Schools have been given a short window to prepare and submit documentation for their appeal. The deadline for schools to submit their proposed appeals to the GHSA is Sunday, November 9th.

Once all appeals are heard and adjudicated, the GHSA will finalize the classification structure. Following the final classification announcement, the GHSA will begin the process of determining specific region alignments, which will dictate who Chattooga and Trion will compete against in their new Class 2A designation for the 2026-2028 athletic cycle.

Chattooga County Young Farmer Director Lauren Jarrett has announced an exceptionally busy schedule for the organization throughout November 2025, focusing on educational outreach, community connection, and vital support for agricultural youth projects.

The month’s calendar is headlined by a critical UGA Beef Update session, the annual Young Farmers Pig Project Show and Auction, and several events designed to celebrate the role of agriculture during Farm City Week.

“November promises to be a highly productive month for the Chattooga agricultural community,” said Director Jarrett. “We encourage all local farmers, ranchers, and interested community members to attend these events, especially the Pig Project Auction, which directly supports the hard work of our young students.”

Supporting Tomorrow’s Producers: Pig Project Show and Auction

The Chattooga Young Farmers are kicking off the local schedule by hosting the Young Farmers Pig Project Show and Auction on Monday, November 10th, at the Chattooga Ag Center.

The show begins at 6 PM, with the auction immediately following. Community members are invited to attend and bid on locally raised pork, directly supporting the youth who have managed these animals throughout the project season.  Bidding will start at $1 per pound.

Bridging the Divide: Farm City Week Events

Chattooga County will celebrate Farm City Week on Tuesday, November 18th, with two key events aimed at strengthening the bond between the rural and urban sectors of the county.

The morning begins with a Drop-In Breakfast from 8 am to 9 am at the Chattooga Ag Center, hosted collaboratively by the Chattooga County Farm Bureau and the Chattooga Extension Office.

Following the breakfast, the Chattooga County Young Farmers will host an Agricultural Tour. The tour will depart from the Ag Center at 9:00 am and return by 11:00 am. Transportation will be provided, allowing attendees to gain firsthand insight into local farming operations.

Educational Focus: UGA Beef Update and Bull Test

The month culminates with a crucial educational meeting for cattle producers: the UGA Beef Update and Bull Test session on Thursday, November 20th, at 7 pm at the Chattooga Ag Center.

The featured speaker will be Jason Duggin, UGA Beef Extension Specialist, who will provide the latest research and information relevant to the regional cattle industry and the UGA Bull Test program.

The update meeting will be accompanied by a Steak Dinner. The cost for the meal is $15 per person. To embrace the holiday spirit, attendees are kindly asked to bring their favorite Thanksgiving dessert to share.

RSVP is required for the steak dinner and educational session. Those planning to attend must contact Lauren Jarrett at ljarrett@chattooga.k12.ga.us or call 706.252.4266 by the deadline of Tuesday, November 18th.

Regional Gathering

Prior to the local events, the Chattooga Young Farmers will participate in the GYFA North Region Caucus on Thursday, November 6th, at the Stephens County Ag Center at 6 pm.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, November 6, 2025: