Today is National Kids and Pets Day. As families prepare for spring and summer vacations, National Kids and Pets Day highlights the importance of keeping children and pets safe in vehicles. AAA – The Auto Club Group emphasizes that drivers must take precautions to protect their young and furry passengers. Montrae Waiters, a spokesperson for AAA, urges people not to leave children or pets in hot cars and to ensure they are secured while traveling. Small steps can help keep everyone safe.

According to data from the National Digital Car Seat Check Form (NDCF) database, 74% of car seats checked in 2023 were installed incorrectly or not used properly. Additionally, 25% of children were moved to booster seats too early, and 93. 6% transitioned to seat belts before they were ready. AAA offers advice on child passenger safety, including: finding the right car seat for a child’s age, weight, and height; correctly installing the car seat by reviewing instructions and videos; getting the car seat inspected; ensuring safety belts fit properly every time; and registering the car seat for recall notices. Waiters stresses that car seats are vital for protecting growing children and that using the correct seat can help safeguard their lives.

The safety message also applies to pets. Traveling with pets requires careful planning to ensure their comfort and safety. AAA recommends providing fresh water, packing favorite toys, taking breaks for exercise and bathroom needs, and securing pets to avoid distractions. Key tips for pet safety include keeping them out of the front seat, using crates for larger dogs, utilizing pet harnesses and seatbelts, and placing them in the back seat or cargo area for safety. Following these guidelines can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for both children and pets.

Chattooga High School is working with Atrium Health Floyd to provide free sports physicals for student-athletes in grades 9 through 12. The annual Atrium Health Floyd Physical Event will occur on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Chattooga High School War Lodge (989 Highway 114, Summerville, GA 30747).

This screening is meant for high school sports participation and includes a medical history review, vision exam, blood pressure check, orthopedic exam, and a general sports screening. Important Information for Participants: GHSA Sports Physical Form Required: Students must bring the updated GHSA physical form, completed and signed by a parent or guardian. Forms will be checked at the entrance. Preparation: Wear contacts or bring glasses if needed. Avoid physical activity for 1 to 2 hours before the screening. Parental/Guardian Presence Required: Parent or Guardian must fill out and sign all physical forms before attending. Screening, Not Complete Physical: This does not replace an annual physical with a personal doctor. Physical Form Retention: Atrium Health Floyd will not keep copies of the physicals. Contact your Athletic Director if you need a copy.

This free event is a great chance for young athletes to ensure they are ready for the upcoming sports season.

New data released by the Georgia Department of Labor reveals a mixed employment picture across Northwest Georgia for the month of March. While some counties saw modest improvements, Chattooga County continues to struggle with the region’s highest unemployment rate.

Chattooga County’s unemployment rate remains at 4.1%, placing it significantly above its neighboring counties. Dade County experienced a slight dip from 3.6% in February to 3.5% in March, while Catoosa County saw a decrease of a tenth of a percent to 3.3%. Walker County held steady at 3.4%, a minor increase from the 3.1% recorded in March of the previous year. Floyd County’s March numbers showed an unemployment rate of 3.5%.

Statewide, the report indicates job losses in sectors such as transportation and warehousing (-3,200), accommodation and food services (-1,100), and professional, scientific, and technical services (-400). However, there were significant year-over-year gains in other industries. Health care and social assistance led the way with an impressive 22,500 new jobs. Local, federal, and state government positions also saw considerable increases, adding 4,200, 4,100, and 3,700 jobs respectively.

The finance and insurance sector also experienced growth, with 3,100 new positions. Despite these gains, certain sectors experienced job declines compared to the previous year, including administrative and support services (-8,700), accommodation and food services (-5,500), retail trade (-4,600), transportation and warehousing (-3,100), and durable goods manufacturing (-2,500).

The Town of Trion is giving residents a helping hand in sprucing up their properties with the launch of Spring Cleanup Days, running from April 28th through May 12th. The initiative offers a free and convenient way for residents to dispose of unwanted items and enhance the overall appearance of the town. The Town of Trion will provide a dumpster, conveniently located at Trion Town Hall, for residents to use for disposal at no charge. Town officials are strongly encouraging everyone to participate in the cleanup, highlighting its importance in boosting curb appeal and ensuring compliance with city ordinances. “This is a great opportunity for our residents to freshen up their properties after the winter months,” stated Trion Mayor Lanny Thomas. The Spring Cleanup Days also serve as a reminder for residents to maintain their properties according to town codes. Following the cleanup period, town officials will be actively inspecting properties and addressing any outstanding code violations. Residents are advised that this cleanup offers a valuable opportunity to address any potential issues before stricter enforcement measures, including fines and penalties, are implemented. So, mark your calendars, Trion! Take advantage of the Spring Cleanup Days between April 28th and May 12th. Utilize the free dumpster at Town Hall to dispose of unwanted items and contribute to a cleaner, more beautiful Trion for everyone.

A report released by the Georgia State Patrol on a deadly accident on Highway 48 on April 17th, that took the life of a Cloudland man was released and contains details that implicate a Trion man.  David M. Arnold, 47, is facing charges of second-degree vehicular homicide and failure to maintain a single lane in connection to the death of 51-year old David Joe Gill. The crash occurred around 8:30 AM near the intersection of Highway 48 and Indian Trail.

According to Arnold, who was driving a maroon 1999 Chevrolet Silverado, Gill’s red 1999 GMC Sierra “suddenly darted into his lane,” resulting in the collision. However, the Georgia State Patrol’s investigation paints a different picture. Post Commander Chris Harris stated, “Roadway evidence showed that all debris, tire marks, and road marks were in the eastbound lane. There was no evidence that Gill’s vehicle crossed the center line of the road prior to or after the collision.”

The official report indicates that after the initial impact, Arnold’s truck continued westbound in the eastbound lane before striking a guardrail. Gill’s vehicle spun counter-clockwise, left the roadway, and came to rest on the south shoulder. Arnold’s charges stem from second-degree vehicular homicide, a misdemeanor under Georgia law.

If convicted, Arnold could face up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and potentially community service or other penalties determined by the court.

The Georgia State Patrol’s Specialized Collision Reconstruction Team is continuing its investigation into the incident.

The Chattooga County Board of Education will auction older vehicles, including school buses, vans, and a truck, to streamline operations and address rising repair costs. This decision was made during a recent board meeting. After an unsuccessful attempt to sell the vehicles with a $1,000 reserve price, the Board will now offer them without a minimum bid. An advertisement for the auction will appear in the local newspaper next week, with bids opening this coming Friday. The Chattooga County Board of Education emphasized that this decision reflects responsible management of taxpayer money, as the aging vehicles are costly to maintain. If the auction does not yield satisfactory offers, the Board may consider scrapping the vehicles to clear the non-operational equipment from their property. The motion for the sale was proposed by Bonnie Fletcher, seconded by Chad Dodd, and received unanimous support. Interested bidders should check  local media next week for details.

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger has penned a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, imploring the Trump Administration to prioritize and thoroughly vet the asylum claims of Afghan Christian refugees currently residing in the United States. Raffensperger voiced his concern that these individuals face imminent danger if returned to Afghanistan, where Christians face persecution and even execution under Taliban rule.

The plea comes shortly after Easter, a significant event in Christianity, prompting Raffensperger to highlight the precarious situation of these refugees. “Many of these Afghan Christians had risked their lives for religious freedom and democratic values in service of American forces in-country,” Raffensperger stated. “We should make sure we hear their asylum claims before sending them back to a government that is known to persecute Christians.” Raffensperger emphasized the perilous environment for Christians in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, citing reports from organizations like Help the Persecuted and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. These reports detail targeted violence, state-sponsored persecution, and the near-certain threat of execution under the Taliban’s interpretation of Sharia law.

“Afghanistan under the Taliban remains one of the most dangerous places in the world for Christians,” Raffensperger stated emphatically. He concluded his letter by reaffirming Georgia’s and the United States’ dedication to defending human rights and religious liberty. “America has long stood as a beacon of hope to the oppressed and a defender of religious freedom. I respectfully request that DHS continue in that tradition in how they treat these Afghan Christian families,” Raffensperger wrote. “Our nation’s moral leadership is defined not just by the policies we enact, but by the people we choose to protect.” He calls for a continued commitment to upholding America’s legacy of providing refuge and protection to those facing persecution.

An Armuchee man was arrested and jailed Wednesday on felony terroristic threats and acts charges. Alex Maxwell Carver, 35, of Old Dalton Road, is accused of making threats against two individuals. According to a warrant issued by the Floyd County Police Department, Carver allegedly threatened another man in his Old Dalton Road home, stating, “I will hang you.” A similar threat was reportedly made against a worker with the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS). Floyd County Police took Carver into custody, and he was subsequently booked into the Floyd County Jail.

Northwest Georgia residents should prepare for scattered thunderstorms this afternoon and evening, according to the National Weather Service. While a widespread severe weather event is not anticipated, the strongest storms could bring gusty winds, small hail, and locally heavy rainfall. The forecast also includes patchy fog before 10 am, giving way to mostly cloudy skies with a high near 78 degrees Fahrenheit. A south wind of 5 to 10 mph is expected. There is a 60% chance of precipitation, with new rainfall amounts estimated between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, though higher amounts are possible in areas affected by thunderstorms. Looking ahead to the weekend, the National Weather Service forecasts isolated thunderstorms for Saturday and Sunday across portions of both north and central Georgia. Forecasters emphasize that widespread severe storms are not expected at this time.  Rain chances decrease on Monday and sunny skies and warm temperatures are expected to start the new work week.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, April 25, 2025:

Student enrollment at Georgia’s public colleges and universities has reached a historic high for the spring semester, totaling 345,823 students. This record number was announced by Angela Bell, Vice Chancellor of Research and Policy Analysis for the University System of Georgia (USG), during a Board of Regents meeting held at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro. The impressive spring enrollment figures mark the second consecutive year of growth for the USG’s 26 institutions. This positive trend follows enrollment declines in 2022 and 2023, as the system navigated the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. Bell attributed the resurgence to a combination of factors, including renewed student interest in higher education and the USG’s ongoing efforts to make college more accessible and affordable. The record-breaking enrollment underscores the continued importance of Georgia’s public colleges and universities in providing educational opportunities to students across the state.

The Trion High School Class of 1975 is gearing up to celebrate its 50th reunion on Saturday, May 3rd, at the Station House restaurant in LaFayette. The reunion will kick off with fellowship time beginning at 5:00 p.m., followed by dinner and various activities planned for the evening. Organizers are extending a warm invitation to all former classmates who entered Trion School in 1963 or joined the class at any point thereafter. Significant others are also welcome to attend this event. Interested alumni can obtain further details and RSVP by contacting Alisa McCurdy Bigham at sambigham@aol.com or by phone at 706-639-726, David Snow at dasnow@windstream.net, or Randy Searels at randysearels@hotmail.com. The cost to attend is $40 per person, which includes dinner, gratuity, and all associated restaurant fees.

Berry College faculty, staff, and students have been actively conducting prescribed burns across various locations in recent weeks to support the ongoing Longleaf Pine project. These controlled burns aim to restore key species and habitats while mitigating the risk of devastating wildfires.

The areas targeted for the burns include the landscape surrounding the House O’Dreams (HOD), the old-growth slopes southeast of HOD on Lavender Mountain, including the SAVE area where longleaf pines were first planted nearly 25 years ago. Additionally, the entirety of Stretch Road (Lavender Mountain Road), encompassing the Longleaf pine seed orchard, Martha’s Meadow xeric limestone barrens, and nearby Calcareous flatwoods areas, were included. According to Berry College officials, the prescribed burns are a critical component of ecological management, promoting biodiversity and reducing the accumulation of flammable undergrowth that could fuel dangerous wildfires. “A little bit of prevention goes a long way,” a college spokesperson stated. The operation was primarily organized by Berry’s forester, Tim Chesnut, with significant involvement from Berry College students, staff, and faculty. Outside contractors also contributed to the effort.

The college extends its gratitude to everyone who participated in the planning, facilitation, and implementation of these vital prescribed burns. Berry College plans to release follow-up photos in the coming weeks, showcasing the recovery of these areas after the burns. This will provide an opportunity to observe the positive impact of the controlled burns on the landscape and the long-term health of the Longleaf Pine ecosystem.

Residents of Chattooga County, and surrounding counties in Northwest Georgia,  are reminded that the annual summer burn ban starts May 1st and runs until September 30th. The ban, implemented by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), prohibits open burning of yard and land clearing debris in an effort to reduce air pollution and prevent wildfires during the hotter months. According to WNEG Radio, the primary purpose of the burn ban is to limit emissions that can contribute to ozone formation, a significant air quality concern during the summer. The restrictions apply to a total of 54 counties across Georgia. Specifically, the burn ban prohibits the burning of yard waste, land clearing debris, and other materials that could potentially exacerbate air pollution or pose a wildfire risk. While prescribed burning and certain other types of burning activities may be permitted under specific conditions outside of the affected 54 counties, Chattooga County residents are urged to adhere strictly to the regulations. The EPD is responsible for enforcing the burn ban, and those found in violation may be subject to fines. To manage yard waste during the ban, residents are encouraged to explore alternative solutions such as composting, mulching, or engaging a professional yard waste removal service.

The unemployment rate in Northwest Georgia remained unchanged at 3.5% in March, according to the latest figures released on Thursday.

While the rate holds steady over the month, it reflects a slight increase from 3.3% reported one year ago. Despite the consistent unemployment rate, the labor force saw a positive surge, increasing by 2,672 individuals over the month, bringing the total labor force to 455,942. However, this figure represents a decrease of 1,097 compared to the previous year. The number of employed residents also experienced a monthly boost, rising by 2,815 to reach 440,054.

This figure is down by 2,113 compared to the same period last year. In positive news, initial unemployment claims showed a decrease, falling by 511 over the month and 112 over the year, settling at 1,705.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes highlighted the state’s workforce engagement, stating, “In March, Georgians from every corner of the state stepped up, joining the workforce and filling critical jobs that drive our state’s economy forward.” She added, “By working with regional partners across the state, we’re creating a globally competitive workforce — one that’s built to last and ready to lead Georgia into its next phase of prosperity.”

These figures paint a mixed picture of the Northwest Georgia labor market, showing stability in unemployment rate alongside growth in the labor force and employment numbers, tempered by year-over-year decreases.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced on Wednesday that the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) Board of Directors has appointed Angelique McClendon as the new Commissioner of DDS, effective May 1.

McClendon has previously served as General Counsel and Assistant Deputy Commissioner of Legal and Regulatory Affairs, focusing on legal and regulatory issues for the agency. She takes over from Spencer Moore, who has served for over 30 years.

Governor Kemp congratulated McClendon on her promotion and expressed confidence in her ability to improve services at the agency. He also thanked Spencer Moore for his contributions, highlighting his role in enhancing the state’s logistics network and modernizing DDS operations.

McClendon will officially become Commissioner on May 1, 2025. She joined DDS in 2015 and has a background as an Assistant Solicitor and an Assistant Attorney General. McClendon has been involved in significant state initiatives, including Georgia’s Digital Driver’s License. She is a mother of two, originally from Decatur, and holds degrees from Xavier University and Georgia State University.

Northwest Georgia residents should be prepared for unsettled weather, with scattered thunderstorms expected across the region, particularly this afternoon and evening. While severe weather is not currently anticipated, forecasters warn that a strong storm or two could bring strong wind gusts and small hail, especially during the afternoon hours. The National Weather Service is predicting a 60% chance of rain today, with highs in the mid-70s and light southeast winds. Tonight will remain mostly cloudy with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms, dropping to the upper 50s overnight. Patchy fog is expected after midnight. The unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue throughout the weekend. Isolated thunderstorms are forecast from Friday through Sunday, with the highest chances in north Georgia. Friday will see a 90% chance of rain, with patchy fog in the morning, followed by showers and thunderstorms in both the morning and afternoon. Saturday will be mostly sunny with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoon. Sunday offers a brief respite, with partly sunny skies and a slight chance of showers in the afternoon.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, April 24, 2025: