Northwest Georgia residents are advised to prepare for another week of unseasonably warm temperatures, with some daily record highs potentially in jeopardy by midweek, coupled with critical fire weather conditions, particularly on Monday. A significant absence of appreciable rainfall is expected through at least late next week, exacerbating dry conditions across much of the state.

Forecasters predict temperatures will remain largely above normal throughout the week, climbing into the mid to upper 70s across much of north and central Georgia. These highs are estimated to be 10-15 degrees warmer than average for mid-November, putting several daily record highs at risk of being broken by Wednesday. Overnight lows are generally expected to stay in the 50s.

The prolonged dry spell, combined with low relative humidity values and increasingly dry fuels, has prompted warnings for critical fire weather conditions, especially for Monday afternoon. Relative humidity across much of north and central Georgia is expected to plummet into the low 20s and even teens, creating an environment highly susceptible to rapid wildfire spread. Officials urge extreme caution with any outdoor burning activities and advise residents to monitor local fire weather forecasts closely.

Adding to the fire risk, the forecast offers little hope for substantial relief through precipitation. While an isolated, light rain shower is possible in far northeast Georgia tonight (Sunday), significant rainfall totals are not anticipated throughout the entire week, and possibly beyond, until at least late next week.

A mostly dry cold front passing through Sunday is expected to bring a minor change, with Monday night seeing northwest winds and lows dropping into the upper 30s to low 40s. However, this reprieve will be short-lived, as winds are forecast to shift southeast by Tuesday, bringing warmer, drier conditions back to the region.

Looking further ahead, there are indications of a potential pattern shift towards the end of the forecast period, specifically Friday through Sunday of next week. Rain chances during this window are currently estimated at 40-50%, with potential rainfall totals ranging from 1 to 1.5 inches. Forecasters note that North Georgia currently has a higher probability of receiving meaningful rainfall compared to central Georgia, though the exact timing of this potential precipitation remains uncertain.

With persistent warmth, elevated fire danger, and minimal rainfall anticipated for the majority of the week, residents are encouraged to stay informed on local weather alerts, exercise utmost caution to prevent fires, and conserve water where possible.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, November 16, 2025:

Seen in the photo (from left): Catoosa County Chairman Steven M. Henry, Walker County Chairwoman Angie Teems, Dade County Chairman Don Townsend, and Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen.

County leaders across Northwest Georgia have formally launched a new series of quarterly meetings aimed at strengthening cooperation, streamlining shared services, and tackling common regional challenges.

The inaugural gathering took place in Ringgold this week, hosted by Catoosa County Chairman Steven M. Henry. The meeting brought together chairpersons and commissioners from neighboring jurisdictions—including Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen—to establish a deeper commitment to collaboration across the region.

The initiative stems from a recognition that many Northwest Georgia counties already share vital infrastructure and services. Chairman Henry emphasized that ongoing communication and coordination are essential to ensuring these systems operate efficiently and deliver maximum benefit to local residents.

“Through stronger partnership comes greater efficiency, greater impact on people, and new approaches to solving challenges,” Henry said during the kick-off meeting.

The participating leaders currently share a number of resources, most notably the Lookout Mountain Judicial District. The quarterly meetings will serve as a dedicated forum for maintaining the effectiveness of these joint operations while also investigating new avenues for shared efforts.

The new structure is designed to move beyond informal coordination. The regular sessions will explore solutions to common issues impacting the combined population, ranging from public safety concerns to regional economic development, signaling a renewed effort to maximize efficiency and joint efforts across the Northwest Georgia region.

A historic 40-drawing streak without a top-prize winner came to an end Friday night after a single ticket sold in Georgia claimed an estimated $980 million Mega Millions jackpot, securing the eighth-largest prize in the game’s history.

The winning ticket, which successfully matched all six numbers drawn, was purchased at a Publix supermarket in Newnan, a city located approximately 40 miles southwest of Atlanta.

The winning numbers drawn were 1, 8, 11, 12, 57, and the Mega Ball 7.

The monumental win marks the first time since June that the Mega Millions jackpot has been claimed. In that previous drawing, a Virginia ticket won $348 million.

“We are thrilled to congratulate the largest winner in our state’s history,” said Georgia Lottery President and CEO Gretchen Corbin in a news release.

The supermarket where the winning ticket was sold will also benefit, receiving a $50,000 retailer bonus from the Georgia Lottery.

Cash Value and Payout Options

The lucky winner now faces a life-altering financial decision. They can choose to receive the full estimated $980 million prize in annual payments over 30 years, or opt for a one-time, lump-sum cash payout. The cash option, before taxes are deducted, is valued at $452.2 million.

It is standard for winners to come forward weeks or even months after a drawing to finalize their claim and select their preferred payout structure.

Context of the Game’s Overhaul

The massive payout comes after an overhaul of the Mega Millions game implemented last April, which hiked the ticket price to $5 and increased the starting jackpot to $50 million.

Under the current rules, the odds of winning the top jackpot are steep, standing at 1 in 290 million, according to the lottery.

This prize is the largest Mega Millions jackpot since those changes were enacted.

While the Georgia ticket claimed the grand prize, other players across the country secured significant winnings. A ticket sold in Michigan matched all five white balls and included the 3X multiplier, netting the player a $3 million prize. Additionally, 22 other tickets nationwide matched four white balls and the Mega Ball, earning $20,000 each.

Despite the near-billion-dollar payout, the Mega Millions’ all-time record jackpot remains $1.6 billion, won by a single ticket sold in Florida in August 2023.

The City of Summerville has issued a notice alerting residents and commuters to a major road closure that will begin next week, necessitated by ongoing construction at the municipal water treatment facility.

Filter Plant Road will be closed to through traffic starting Monday, November 17, 2025, at 6:00 a.m., and is expected to remain closed until the construction at the adjacent water treatment plant is fully completed.

The closure affects the entire stretch of Filter Plant Road from Highway 48 to the intersection at Back Berryton Road.

Traffic Restrictions Detailed

City officials stress that the closure is comprehensive, and drivers must seek alternative routes immediately. Specific traffic restrictions include:

• No Through Traffic: The primary purpose of the closure is to halt all through traffic between Highway 48 and Back Berryton Road.
• Back Berryton Access Blocked: Traffic traveling on Back Berryton Road will no longer be able to access Highway 48 via Filter Plant Road.
• Resident Access Limited: Residents living directly on Filter Plant Road will have restricted access. They will only be permitted to enter and exit the road segment via Highway 48. They will not be able to travel to, or exit onto, Back Berryton Road.

The time frame for the reopening of the road is currently indefinite, contingent upon the successful completion of the infrastructure work being conducted at the water treatment plant.

The City of Summerville acknowledged the inevitable disruption this closure will cause for daily commuters, particularly those who use Filter Plant Road as a connector route.

“We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate the public’s patience during this essential construction period,” the City wrote in its formal announcement.

Drivers are advised to plan alternative routes well in advance of the November 17 start date and to pay close attention to all temporary signage installed near the construction zone.

The University System of Georgia (USG) has announced a record-high enrollment this fall, marking its third consecutive year of growth and reaching an unprecedented 382,142 students across its 26 public colleges and universities. This represents a significant 4.8% increase from last fall, with 23 institutions reporting growth.

The surge in student numbers was predominantly driven by a rise in in-state undergraduate students, underscoring the system’s vital role in educating Georgia’s future workforce.

“Across the state, we’re not just enrolling students but we’re preparing them for the real-world demands of a fast-changing workforce,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said in a statement. “Thanks to the hard work of our presidents, faculty and staff, we’re helping more students enter college, stay on track and get to graduation. Coupled with a record number of degrees awarded this past year, we’re contributing to the virtuous cycle of a more educated workforce and more prosperous Georgia.”

Individual institutions saw notable gains. Kennesaw State University recorded the largest headcount growth, adding 3,530 new students to its campus. The University of West Georgia experienced the highest percentage increase, growing by 11.7% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the Georgia Institute of Technology remains the largest institution within the USG, enrolling 56,715 students.

While in-state students fueled much of the expansion, systemwide out-of-state enrollment also increased by 6.5%. However, the data indicated a decrease of more than 6% in the number of out-of-state students receiving tuition waivers. International student enrollment showed the smallest growth, increasing by 295 students, which is the smallest percentage increase in this category since the 2020 semester.

The USG’s student body also grew more diverse. The number of students identifying as Latino saw the most significant rise at 8.9%, followed by an 8.1% increase in Black students, and a 5.2% increase in Asian students. White student enrollment grew by 1.7%.

Further details on the fall enrollment can be found in the USG’s annual report, providing a comprehensive look at the system’s growth and demographic shifts.

The Trion City Schools community will gather this afternoon to celebrate the life and legacy of Superintendent Dr. Phil Williams, who passed away unexpectedly on November 7th from an apparent heart attack.

The school system announced that a public memorial service will be held today, Sunday, November 16, 2025, at the Trion High School Gymnasium. The event is structured as a drop-in congregation, allowing friends, family, and community members to pay their respects anytime between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

Dr. Williams’ sudden passing sent shock waves through the tight-knit Trion area, where he was highly regarded as a dedicated and influential educational leader.

In an announcement posted by the school system, the memorial is described as a celebration of the life of the “beloved Superintendent.”

Ceremony and Scholarship Details

The memorial service is designed to accommodate the large number of people wishing to honor Dr. Williams. While the event runs for two hours, a brief, formal remembrance ceremony is scheduled to begin promptly at 4:40 PM for those who wish to attend the formal portion of the tribute.

The school system has extended an invitation to “the entire Trion community, along with family, friends, classmates, and colleagues” to attend the afternoon gathering. Light refreshments will be served during the event.

Furthermore, details will be made available onsite for those interested in contributing to the Dr. Phil Williams Memorial Scholarship fund, which has been established in his honor to carry forward his commitment to local education.

The Georgia Senate Special Committee on Eliminating Georgia’s Income Tax held its fourth pivotal meeting this past week, accelerating its study into a potential policy shift that would fundamentally reshape the state’s fiscal landscape.

Created by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, the bipartisan committee is tasked with developing a robust plan to completely eliminate the state income tax while crucially ensuring the continued fiscal soundness of Georgia’s budget and the funding of essential services.

Chaired by Senator Blake Tillery (R-Vidalia), the committee’s central challenge is devising a reliable strategy for replacing the estimated multi-billion dollars in revenue currently generated by the tax—a key source of funding for public infrastructure, education, and social programs.

The Push for Competitiveness

The motivation behind the ambitious goal is rooted in economic competitiveness and tax relief for residents. Supporters of the elimination argue that scrapping the income tax will make Georgia one of only a handful of states without the levy, attracting new businesses, encouraging in-migration of skilled workers, and allowing current residents to retain significantly more of their earnings.

“This effort is about ensuring Georgia remains the economic powerhouse of the Southeast,” said one committee spokesperson, reflecting the view that lower tax burdens create a stronger, more attractive economy. “Our goal is to create a pathway where Georgians keep more of what they earn, driving local growth, but that pathway must be sustainable.”

Bipartisan Effort Meets Fiscal Reality

While the motivation for tax relief is widely supported, the process is fraught with complexity. Committee members are actively exploring various models for revenue replacement—potentially relying on increased consumption taxes or adjustments to existing tax structures—to offset the substantial loss.

Key to the committee’s deliberations are concerns regarding the maintenance of funding for crucial public services. Members are diligently studying the projected impact on vital state allocations, particularly budget items dedicated to public education and programs that support citizens with special needs.

The structure of the committee itself highlights the significance of the undertaking. It includes a bipartisan array of lawmakers dedicated to finding a workable solution, including Senators Jason Anavitarte, Greg Dolezal, Ed Harbison, Chuck Hufstetler, Steve Gooch, John F. Kennedy, Nan Orrock, Michael “Doc” Rhett, Larry Walker III, and Sam Watson.

The Special Committee is working toward developing a comprehensive, actionable proposal for tax elimination and revenue replacement, which they aim to present before the next legislative session convenes in 2024. The findings are expected to set the stage for one of the most significant fiscal debates in recent Georgia history.

The City of Summerville, Georgia, has announced an immediate opening for a skilled and dedicated individual to join its public works team as a Gas Maintenance Worker. This crucial position plays a vital role in maintaining the city’s essential gas infrastructure, ensuring the continued safety and reliable service for Summerville residents.

The Gas Maintenance Worker will be instrumental in the installation, repair, and ongoing maintenance of the city’s gas lines and system components. This hands-on role is fundamental to the day-to-day operations of Summerville’s gas utility.

Key responsibilities for the successful candidate include:

• Locating and expertly repairing leaks and corrosion within the gas system.
• Promptly responding to after-hours emergency repair calls to address critical issues.
• Installing, repairing, and maintaining pipelines and gas meters.
• Operating trucks and various equipment to transport necessary supplies and tools to job sites.

Minimum qualifications for the role include a High School Diploma or GED equivalent and 1-2 years of relevant experience in gas system maintenance or a related field. A valid Georgia Driver’s License is also a mandatory requirement.

The City emphasizes that the work environment is primarily outdoors, requiring physical dexterity and the ability to lift both light and heavy objects as needed. Summerville offers a challenging yet rewarding environment for individuals looking to contribute meaningfully to their community.

Interested and qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to review the full job description and submit their application. More details and the application portal can be found by visiting: https://tinyurl.com/COS-GasMaintWkr

The City of Summerville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.

Residents of Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for another week of unusually warm and dry weather, with temperatures remaining significantly above average and a critical fire weather threat looming for Monday afternoon.

Forecasters warn that while the weather may feel pleasant, the persistent dry spell is heightening drought concerns, and meaningful rainfall appears unlikely until the end of next week.

Record Warmth Persists

The short-term forecast calls for a continuation of summer-like conditions, with high temperatures running 10 to 15 degrees above the seasonal norm.

Highs throughout the week will settle into the mid to upper 70s, with overnight lows generally in the 50s. While a weak cold front is expected to pass through Northwest Georgia on Sunday and Monday, it will offer little in the way of moisture. The only noticeable effect will be slightly cooler overnight lows—potentially dipping into the low 40s—across the northern half of the region early next week.

“Highs will continue to run on the warm side of normal through the short term,” said a weather service spokesperson. “It remains on the dry side out there, but southwest winds will start to bring some moisture back into the area, preventing overnight lows from falling as far as they did last week. Get out there and enjoy the nice weather!”

Critical Fire Weather Alert for Monday

The combination of persistent high temperatures and extremely low humidity has resulted in a heightened risk of fire ignition and spread.

Forecasters have issued a warning for critical fire weather conditions expected for Monday afternoon. Relative humidity (RH) is projected to fall sharply into the 30% range for most of the area. This coupled with dry fuel conditions means any sparks or escaped burns could quickly escalate.

Authorities urge residents to exercise extreme caution regarding outdoor burning, campfires, and the disposal of smoking materials, especially during the peak afternoon heat.

Drought Conditions Unlikely to Improve

The long-term outlook remains uneventful, continuing the pattern of above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation. The ongoing drought conditions in the region are not expected to see relief in the immediate future.

Soaking rainfall that would significantly improve the current drought is unlikely through at least next Thursday. Rain chances throughout the current work week are extremely limited, remaining below 10 to 15 percent, as strong high pressure (ridging) dominates the Eastern United States, pushing storm systems north of Georgia.

Potential for Significant Rainfall Next Weekend

While the immediate outlook is dry, there is increasing confidence in a significant pattern change toward the end of the forecast period.

Indications suggest that a low-pressure system moving eastward, coupled with a breakdown of the existing high-pressure ridge, may bring much-needed moisture to the area next weekend, spanning Friday through Sunday.

Rain chances are currently forecast to be in the 40 to 50 percent range during this potential shift. Preliminary estimates are encouraging, with potential accumulated precipitation values closer to 2 inches over a two-day period in the Northwest region.

While the timing remains uncertain, forecasters note that confidence is increasing that precipitation will finally affect the area, potentially bringing the drought relief the region desperately needs.

The Trion Bulldogs’ 2025 football season ended on a dramatic, heartbreaking note Friday night, as they fell just short in a hard-fought battle against the Hawkinsville Red Devils in the first round of the GHSA state playoffs.

Hawkinsville narrowly escaped with a 24-21 victory after repelling a desperate late-game rally by the Bulldogs, who were attempting to win on the road. The win bumps the Red Devils’ record to 9-2 and advances them to the next round, continuing their impressive five-game winning streak.

For Trion, the outcome was not what the team had hoped for. The loss finalized their season record at 4-7, a noticeable dent following a struggle that saw the Bulldogs drop four of their last five matchups.

Momentum Swings Define First Half

The back-and-forth contest was tightly contested from the opening whistle. Hawkinsville managed to draw first blood with a field goal to take an early 3-0 lead. However, the Bulldogs quickly responded, crossing the goal line for a touchdown to briefly seize the advantage, 7-3.

The Red Devils refused to let Trion hold the momentum, answering immediately with a rushing touchdown of their own to recapture the lead, 10-7, before the close of the first quarter.

Hawkinsville extended its control in the second quarter, finding the endzone again to build a significant 17-7 buffer. Trion managed to answer with a key touchdown before halftime, closing the gap once more as they went into the locker room facing a 17-14 deficit.

Late Drama Seals the Season

The third quarter proved to be a defensive stalemate, with neither team able to push across points, leaving the score locked at 17-14 heading into the final frame.

The decisive moment came early in the fourth quarter when Hawkinsville executed their third rushing touchdown of the night. This score extended the Red Devils’ lead once again, pushing the margin to 24-14 and putting the Bulldogs under immense pressure with time winding down.

Trion refused to surrender. With roughly two minutes left in the game, the Bulldogs punched in a final touchdown, shrinking the gap to 24-21. Facing a three-point deficit and needing the ball back immediately, Trion opted for an onside kick, hoping for an opportunity to mount a game-winning drive.

Unfortunately for the visiting Bulldogs, Hawkinsville’s special teams unit held firm. The Red Devils successfully recovered the onside kick, securing possession and allowing them to run out the remaining clock and lock up the 24-21 victory.

The win not only sends Hawkinsville to the second round of the playoffs but also maintains their impressive home dominance, marking their eighth consecutive victory at home dating back to last season.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, November 15, 2025:

Chattooga County’s Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) students showcased exceptional talent this week, securing multiple top finishes at the AGC Georgia Skills Challenge in Moultrie and earning substantial scholarships in the Tulsa Welding Competition.

The Chattooga County Skills team demonstrated remarkable proficiency across various skilled trades, bringing home an impressive array of awards and setting the stage for advancement to state-level competitions.

AGC Georgia Skills Challenge: A Sweep of Victories

Held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in Moultrie, the AGC Georgia Skills Challenge brought together CTE students from across South and Southwest Georgia to test their abilities in critical trade skills. The Chattooga County team distinguished itself with a series of first-place victories and strong showings in core events:

• Electrical: Matthew Busby clinched first place, with Pedro Lopez securing a close second.
• Plumbing: Riley Willis demonstrated superior skills, earning a first-place finish.
• Carpentry: Kasen Elsberry dominated the competition, also taking first place.
• Welding: Parker Powell showcased his expertise with a first-place win.
• Blueprint Reading: Corbin Wiggins earned a commendable third-place finish.

The AGC Georgia Skills Challenge, part of a series hosted by AGC Georgia, serves as a crucial platform for students to demonstrate proficiency in trades like Carpentry, Electrical, Masonry, Plumbing, and Welding. Winners from this regional event are now eligible to advance to the prestigious SkillsUSA Georgia State Leadership & Skills Conference in February 2026, where they will compete for state titles.

Tulsa Welding Competition: Major Scholarship Haul

Adding to their accolades, several Chattooga County students also excelled at the highly competitive Tulsa Welding Competition, earning significant scholarships that will help further their education and careers.

• 1st Place: Landon Dawson secured an outstanding first place, earning an impressive $8,000 scholarship.
• 2nd Place: Skylar Ward followed with a second-place finish, awarded a $5,000 scholarship.
• 3rd Place: Gunner Henderson took third place, receiving a $3,000 scholarship.
• 5th Place: Cooper Hampton also achieved a commendable fifth-place finish among a strong field of competitors.

The outstanding performances by Chattooga County’s CTAE students underscore the strength of their career and technical programs and their dedication to mastering valuable trade skills. These achievements not only bring recognition to the students and their school but also prepare them for successful careers in high-demand industries. Their success at these regional and national-level competitions bodes well for their future at the state conference and beyond.

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr has issued a stark warning to residents regarding the alarming proliferation of products containing 7-OH (7-hydroxymitragynine), a dangerously potent opioid-like substance now readily available in convenience stores, gas stations, and vape shops across the state.

These concentrated forms of 7-OH, often marketed deceptively, are 13 times more potent than morphine, according to the FDA, and pose severe health risks including substance abuse disorder, overdose, and even death.

7-OH, formally known as 7-hydroxymitragynine, is a chemical compound naturally found in low concentrations within the kratom plant. However, the products now being sold are not natural kratom; they contain isolated, concentrated, or even lab-created synthetic versions of 7-OH that significantly amplify its effects.

“We are seeing a disturbing trend where highly potent, addictive substances are being disguised and sold alongside legitimate consumer goods,” Attorney General Carr stated. “These aren’t harmless supplements; they are engineered to be addictive and can ruin lives. We must educate ourselves and our communities to protect our most vulnerable.”

The Attorney General emphasized the significant dangers associated with these concentrated forms, which come in various formats such as tablets, capsules, shots, and liquid extracts. The FDA has warned that these substances can lead to devastating health consequences including seizures, severe substance abuse disorder, intense withdrawal symptoms, overdose, and even death.

Carr highlighted the predatory marketing tactics employed by manufacturers, who often falsely label these products as “natural kratom” while packing them with enhanced levels of synthesized compounds. Disturbingly, many products are deliberately designed to mimic everyday candies, gummies, and even ice cream cones – a clear attempt to appeal to unsuspecting teens and young adults.

Attorney General Carr urged Georgians, particularly parents, educators, and young adults, to be vigilant and aware of these dangerous products. He emphasized the importance of understanding the true nature of what is being sold and consumed, especially when it comes to unregulated substances with such high potency and severe health implications.

The warning comes as authorities nationwide grapple with the rise of novel psychoactive substances that circumvent existing regulations, presenting new challenges for public health and safety.

The compassionate care nurse Rob Wade showed to a patient at the Atrium Health Floyd Chattooga Emergency Department was noticed by the patient’s mother.

“He was the best nurse I have encountered in years,” the woman wrote, nominating Wade for a DAISY Award. “His level of compassion and professionalism far exceeded any I have experienced in over 20 years. His friendly bedside manner put my son at ease. It takes a lot to ease his anxiety, yet this nurse made my son laugh.”

She also said Wade was born to be a caregiver. “Floyd is lucky to have such a gifted and amazing employee,” she added.

The family of Patrick Barnes established the DAISY Foundation after Barnes died from an auto-immune disease while being treated in a Seattle hospital.

Sheila Bennett, senior vice president and chief of patient services at Atrium Health Floyd, presented Wade with a DAISY pin and a sculpture entitled “A Healer’s Touch.” Members of the Shona ethnic group in Zimbabwe hand-carve the sculptures.
The nurse and his teammates were also treated with cinnamon buns, a DAISY tradition because it was one of the few things Barnes could eat while he was hospitalized.

“There’s so many things y’all can be proud of here,” Bennett said to the team at the emergency department Trion. “It really means a lot when patients and family members take time to nominate someone. This mom was convinced that this nurse was the best one they had ever encountered.”

Wade said he was humbled by the award and stressed that it is always a team effort at the emergency department.

“It really takes everybody,” Wade added. “Respiratory, radiology, nurses, doctor and management…everyone does a fantastic job.”

If you know an Atrium Health Floyd nurse who provided exceptional care of you or a loved one, you can nominate them for a DAISY award by completing this online form.

The emergency department, celebrating its second year of operation, is open 24/7 and serves Chattooga County and Walker County in northwest Georgia, as well as northeast Alabama. It is staffed by an onsite board-certified physician.

The emergency department is also the headquarters for Atrium Health Floyd’s second mobile mammography coach, which serves northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama.

Georgia Highlands College (GHC) is experiencing a historic enrollment boom, recognized by the University System of Georgia (USG) Board of Regents this month for achieving the highest growth among state colleges. This remarkable increase is part of a broader, record-setting enrollment trend across the entire USG.

Over the past three years, GHC has seen its enrollment climb by an impressive 23%, growing its student body to nearly 6,000. This significant expansion earned the college special recognition from the USG Board of Regents, underscoring its pivotal role in regional education and workforce development.

“We’re excited to see continued growth at Georgia Highlands College because it reflects our strong partnership with the communities we serve,” said GHC President Mike Hobbs. “As Northwest Georgia continues to expand with new businesses and industries, it’s our responsibility to develop the talent that sustains that momentum. We are preparing graduates for meaningful careers while helping employers thrive with a skilled and ready workforce.”

GHC’s success mirrors a system-wide triumph for the University System of Georgia. According to the USG’s Fall 2025 Semester Enrollment Report, overall enrollment climbed to an all-time record of 382,142 students this fall. This 4.8% increase over Fall 2024 marks the third consecutive year of growth for the system.

The report highlights widespread success, with enrollment growing at 23 of USG’s 26 public colleges and universities. The total number of students at USG institutions across Georgia rose by 17,417 over the previous year. A significant portion of this growth, 13,883 students, came from in-state Georgians, reflecting a 4.8% rise in residents seeking a USG education.

“Across the state, we’re not just enrolling students but we’re preparing them for the real-world demands of a fast-changing workforce,” USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said. “Thanks to the hard work of our presidents, faculty and staff, we’re helping more students enter college, stay on track and get to graduation. Coupled with a record number of degrees awarded this past year, we’re contributing to the virtuous cycle of a more educated workforce and more prosperous Georgia.”

The USG’s annual fall semester enrollment report provides comprehensive data, analyzing enrollment by institution, age, gender, race and ethnicity, as well as in-state, out-of-state, and out-of-country student populations.

Prospective students interested in joining Georgia Highlands College’s thriving community can learn more and start classes this January by visiting apply.highlands.edu

In a strategic move to bolster its leadership and further its mission of whole-person care, AdventHealth Georgia announced today the appointment of two new C-suite executives: Paris Dukes as chief people officer and Patricia “Trish” Price as chief nursing officer. These key additions underscore the health system’s deep commitment to clinical excellence, a thriving team culture, and service to the communities of Northwest Georgia.

“We are thrilled to welcome Paris and Trish to our leadership team,” said Erik Summers, president and CEO of AdventHealth Gordon and AdventHealth Murray. “Their extensive experience and proven track records within the AdventHealth system make them the ideal leaders to help us continue putting our patients and team members at the center of everything we do. Their expertise will be invaluable as we grow and elevate the standard of health care in our region.”

Paris Dukes Appointed Chief People Officer

Paris Dukes joins the AdventHealth Georgia market as the chief people officer, where she will serve as the senior human resources leader for both AdventHealth Gordon in Calhoun and AdventHealth Murray in Chatsworth. In this role, she will be responsible for fostering a supportive and engaging workplace culture for team members.

Dukes brings a wealth of experience in strategic operations and human resources within the AdventHealth network. She most recently served as the executive director of strategic operations and HR for AdventHealth’s Primary Health Division in Central Florida. Prior to that role, she was the director of human resources and an HR business partner at AdventHealth Fish Memorial in Orange City, Florida.

Trish Price Appointed Chief Nursing Officer

Trish Price, RN, brings over 25 years of dedicated service with AdventHealth to her new role as chief nursing officer for AdventHealth Georgia and AdventHealth Redmond in Rome. She is a proven nursing leader with a distinguished history of driving clinical excellence and improving patient outcomes.

Price most recently served as the chief nursing officer at AdventHealth Ocala, where her transformative leadership was instrumental in dramatically improving the hospital’s performance and reputation. Under her guidance, AdventHealth Ocala achieved significant improvements in clinical outcomes and patient safety grades. Most notably, she spearheaded initiatives that elevated the hospital’s Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating from one to four stars—a remarkable testament to her focus on quality and safety.

Both Dukes and Price expressed enthusiasm about joining the AdventHealth Georgia team and are eager to begin serving the patients, families, and team members across Northwest Georgia.

“I am inspired by AdventHealth’s mission and am committed to ensuring our team members have the support and resources they need to provide exceptional care and feel fulfilled in their careers,” said Dukes.

“I look forward to partnering with the incredible nursing teams here to continue advancing our clinical excellence and delivering compassionate, whole-person care to this community,” said Price.

About AdventHealth Georgia: AdventHealth Georgia is a connected system of care for every stage of life and health. More than 400 physicians provide whole-person care in over 25 medical specialties. The network includes three hospitals—AdventHealth Gordon, AdventHealth Murray, and AdventHealth Redmond—and over 20 clinics and outpatient locations. Together, we are transforming the health care experience with an innovative, whole-person approach to healing.

Last week, a Northwest Georgia man was sentenced in connection with child sex crimes after a September trial where a jury found him guilty.

On September 24th, a jury convicted John Christian Collier for filming his child nude and committing 16 counts of sexually related crimes during a trial in Catoosa County. Evidence revealed that Collier, 35, filmed his biological child while the child was undressed during weekend visitations.

The child expressed concerns about Collier’s strange behavior to their mother, who reported it to authorities. At the Children’s Advocacy Center, the child disclosed that Collier made them change clothes in front of him and sometimes insisted on full nudity for various reasons, including taking measurements for shopping.

Detective Todd Pitts investigated the case, securing Collier’s electronics, which contained videos of the child and inappropriate images. Assistant District Attorney David Wolfe presented this evidence to the jury, arguing that Collier’s behavior showed escalating sexual attraction to the child. The jury found him guilty after three days of trial.

During sentencing on November 10, 2025, Judge Don Thompson sentenced Collier to 35 years in prison and 15 years of probation, stating he was a predator with no remorse. Lookout Mountain District Attorney Clayton M. Fuller emphasized a commitment to justice for victims of such crimes in Northwest Georgia.