Chattooga County Voters Head To Polls Today For Primary Election Day
Today is Primary Election Day in Chattooga County and across Georgia, with voters heading to the polls to cast ballots in local, state, and federal races.
Polling locations across Chattooga County opened at 7 a.m. this morning and will remain open until 7 p.m. Any voter who is in line by 7 p.m. will still be allowed to vote.
Residents are reminded to bring a valid photo ID when voting. Acceptable forms of identification include a Georgia driver’s license, state-issued ID card, passport, military ID, or other approved government-issued photo identification.
Election officials encourage voters to confirm their polling location before heading out. Remember, no voting will take place today at the Chattooga County Registrars Office – you must vote in your local precinct.
Voters who requested absentee ballots are also reminded that completed ballots must be returned by the time polls close this evening.
Lee Bohannon Named Interim Head Football Coach At LaFayette High School
LaFayette High School has announced Lee Bohannon as the interim head football coach for the upcoming 2026 football season.
Coach Bohannon joined the Ramblers coaching staff earlier this spring as the team’s new defensive coordinator. He now steps into the head coaching role following the departure of Coach Ethan Thompson, who recently accepted a head coaching position in Arizona.
According to school officials, Bohannon brings 36 years of football coaching experience spanning schools in Georgia, Florida, and Tennessee.
A LaFayette High School alumnus and former Rambler coach, Bohannon is returning with what school leaders describe as a high-energy approach, deep knowledge of the game, and a strong passion for the LaFayette football program.
The school is encouraging the Rambler community to welcome Coach Bohannon back to “100 Rambler Drive” as preparations begin for the 2026 season.
Georgia Gas Tax Suspension Offers Relief Ahead Of Memorial Day Travel
As Memorial Day weekend and the summer travel season approach, Georgia drivers are getting some relief from the state’s extended gas tax suspension.
The statewide average for regular gasoline is currently around $4.00 per gallon, though prices can change overnight. That is about 49 cents below Georgia’s record high of $4.49 set in June 2022.
AAA says drivers can help stretch their fuel budgets by planning routes ahead of time, comparing gas prices, and driving more efficiently.
Area gas price averages include Chattooga County at $3.88, Floyd County at $3.92, Walker County at $3.92, Gordon County at $3.95, DeKalb County, Alabama at $4.08, and Cherokee County, Alabama at $4.00.
Georgia’s average is about 5 cents lower than last week, 35 cents higher than last month, and $1.08 higher than this time last year. Filling up a standard 15-gallon tank now costs about $60.
Nationwide, the average price for regular gasoline is around $4.51 per gallon, just below the record high of $5.01 set in 2022. AAA says drivers could face the highest Memorial Day gas prices in four years as road travel increases.
In Georgia, the most expensive metro markets are Macon, Atlanta, and Savannah. The least expensive include Rome, Catoosa-Dade-Walker, and Brunswick.
Community Blood Drive Planned Wednesday At Mount Vernon Mills In Trion
A community blood drive will be held tomorrow at Mount Vernon Mills in Trion.
The blood drive is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20, from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the mill located at 91 4th Street in Trion. Organizers are encouraging donors to make an appointment ahead of time.
Blood Assurance officials remind donors to eat a healthy meal, drink plenty of water, and avoid energy drinks before donating blood.
Donors can also save time on the day of their appointment by completing the Blood Assurance QuickScreen health questionnaire before arriving.
Anyone with questions about donating blood, or those needing assistance in Spanish, can contact Mitzi at 706-618-9108.
Summerville Santa Special Tickets Now On Sale For 2026 Holiday Season
The City of Summerville has announced that tickets are now available for the popular Summerville Santa Special train excursions for the 2026 holiday season.
The rides will take place aboard the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s holiday train and are scheduled for November 28-29, December 5-6, and December 11-12.
Organizers say the annual event offers families a festive Christmas experience in downtown Summerville, complete with holiday decorations, shopping, and special activities for children. Officials describe the event as having a “small-town Hallmark movie” atmosphere.
Tickets are priced at $24 for ages 2 and older, and organizers encourage residents to purchase early because the rides traditionally sell out.
Tickets can be purchased through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum website.
Officials Urge ATV Safety As Summer Riding Season Begins
With school letting out and summer getting underway, safety officials are reminding families across Northwest Georgia to use caution when riding ATVs and other off-road vehicles.
Dozens of serious ATV crashes happen each year in Georgia, both on trails and on public roads. Officials say many of those accidents involve riders not wearing helmets, carrying extra passengers, or operating vehicles on paved highways where ATVs are generally prohibited.
Georgia law restricts most ATVs from operating on public paved roads and highways. Riders are also reminded that all traffic laws — including distracted driving and DUI laws — still apply when operating off-road vehicles.
Safety experts strongly recommend wearing a DOT-approved helmet, along with goggles, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and over-the-ankle boots while riding. Bicycle helmets are not considered adequate protection for ATV use.
Families are also encouraged to follow manufacturer age recommendations. Federal guidelines prohibit dealers from selling adult-sized ATVs for use by children under 16 years old.
Officials say riders should never carry passengers on single-rider ATVs and should avoid riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Hands-on safety training is also encouraged for both children and adults. Riders can find certified ATV safety courses through the ATV Safety Institute and locate approved riding areas through the U.S. Forest Service, including trails in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.
Authorities say the safest place to ride is on designated off-road trails and private property where riding is permitted.
Proposed Georgia Power Deal Promises Small Savings After Years Of Rising Bills
Georgia Power customers could see slightly lower electric bills later this year under a proposed agreement now headed to the Georgia Public Service Commission for approval.
The utility company says the deal would save customers about $285 million annually statewide. For the average residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month, that works out to roughly $4.04 per month — or less than $50 a year.
Consumer advocates, however, say the savings are modest compared to the sharp increases customers have faced over the past several years. Since 2023, Georgia Power customers have seen multiple rate hikes tied to fuel costs, storm recovery expenses, and construction costs connected to the Vogtle nuclear expansion project.
Critics argue that while any reduction helps, many families are still paying significantly more for electricity than they were just a few years ago, especially heading into the high-demand summer season.
The agreement would spread certain fuel and storm recovery costs over a longer period of time while also applying additional tax credits to offset customer bills. Some of the storm-related expenses are connected to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.
The proposal now goes before the Georgia Public Service Commission, which has faced criticism in recent years from consumer groups who say regulators have too often sided with the utility company during rate cases.
If approved, the changes would take effect this summer.
Georgia State Patrol Warns Drivers About Text Message Scam
The Georgia State Patrol is warning drivers about a scam involving fake text messages claiming to be from law enforcement.
According to GSP, scammers are sending messages saying recipients have outstanding violations or fines connected to their vehicle. The messages may threaten enforcement action or arrest and urge people to click a link to make a payment.
State officials say GSP troopers will not send text messages demanding money, threatening arrest, or asking drivers to click a link to resolve official violations.
Anyone who receives one of these messages should not click the link, reply, provide personal information, or send payment.
Drivers who are concerned about a possible citation or fine should contact the Georgia Department of Public Safety or their local court directly using verified contact information.
Officials say these scams are designed to create fear and urgency, and drivers should slow down, verify first, and contact the proper agency directly if they have questions.
Arrest Report - Monday - May 18, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, May 18, 2026:
Warm Temperatures Continue Across Northwest Georgia; Storm Chances Increase Later This Week
Residents across Northwest Georgia and Chattooga County can expect another warm day Monday, with afternoon highs climbing into the upper 80s and lower 90s.
According to the National Weather Service, only a few isolated thunderstorms are expected this afternoon near the Georgia-Alabama border, and overall storm coverage should remain much lower than what the area experienced Sunday.
Forecasters say high pressure over the region will limit widespread storm development through Tuesday. Winds are expected to remain out of the south at 5 to 10 mph, with overnight lows settling into the mid-60s.
Rain chances are expected to increase beginning Wednesday as a cold front approaches North Georgia. The front is expected to stall near the area later in the week, bringing a higher chance of afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms through the upcoming weekend.
The greatest storm coverage is expected across the northern half of Georgia, including Northwest Georgia and Chattooga County. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated at this time, forecasters say a few strong storms and periods of heavy rainfall cannot be ruled out.
Temperatures are expected to remain above normal through the week, although increased cloud cover and storm activity could bring slightly cooler afternoons later this week.
Election Day Is Tuesday In Chattooga County
Election Day for the May 19, 2026 General Primary and Nonpartisan General Election is tomorrow in Chattooga County.
Polls will be open Tuesday from 7 AM until 7 PM. Voters are reminded that they must go to their assigned Election Day polling location, not the Registrars Office.
According to the Chattooga County Board of Elections, 1,301 ballots were cast during Advance Voting, which has now ended.
As of Saturday, May 16, at 7:30 AM, 53 absentee by mail ballots had been issued. Of those, 42 had been accepted and 11 remained outstanding. The deadline to submit an application for an absentee by mail ballot has passed.
Voters will be required to show a government-issued photo ID when checking in to vote. Those voting in person will also be asked to select a Democratic, Republican, or Nonpartisan ballot.
Health Inspection Scores - First Half of May 2026
The Chattooga County Environmental Health Department has released its latest food service inspection scores for the first half of May 2026.
All listed locations received scores in the 90s or above, with three locations receiving perfect scores of 100.
Pudding Pops’ base of operation and mobile unit, both located at 190 Alred Street in Summerville, each received a perfect score of 100 during inspections on May 12.
Lyerly School also received a perfect score of 100 during its May 1 inspection.
Other scores included Waffle House in Summerville with a 96 on May 8, and Zaxby’s in Summerville with a 99 on May 7.
For more information, or for any complaints about any food service or tourist accommodation that operates in Chattooga County, residents may contact the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department at 706-857-3377.
Summerville Woman Charged With Harassing Communications In Rome
A Summerville woman was jailed in Rome after reports said she harassed staff at Atrium Health Floyd.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 43-year-old Treva Misuni Wiggins of Summerville was taken into custody after allegedly contacting the hospital despite previously being banned from the facility.
Reports stated that Wiggins had been informed that Atrium Health Floyd would no longer provide her treatment. Despite that notice, authorities said she allegedly continued to contact the hospital, leading to the charge.
Wiggins was charged with harassing communications.
Lyerly Man Charged With Exploitation Of Elderly Rome Man
A Lyerly man has been booked into the Floyd County Jail after police said he exploited an elderly Rome man who was battling stage 4 lung cancer.
According to reports, 30-year-old Holland Tyler Bishop allegedly took and wrote a check belonging to the victim for his own use without permission.
Police said the check was written in April of 2024 and was in the amount of $1,300.
Bishop has been charged with exploitation of the elderly or disabled.
Walker County To Celebrate Grand Opening Of Adventure Acres Park
Walker County officials will host a grand opening celebration for the new Adventure Acres park on Wednesday, May 20, from 4 PM until 6 PM.
The new park is located at 370 Salem Road in Rossville.
The celebration will include a brief program, ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the official activation of the park’s splash pad. Refreshments and giveaway items will also be available while supplies last.
Adventure Acres was funded primarily through a $2.2 million American Rescue Plan Act grant. The park features a nature-themed playground with more than 60 components, including a multi-lane zip track, swings, climbing boulders, a splash pad, quarter-mile walking trail, open green space, pavilion, restrooms, community Wi-Fi hotspot, and solar-powered charging station.
Chattooga High School Releases 2026-2027 Parent And Family Engagement Plans
Chattooga High School has released its 2026-2027 Parent and Family Engagement Policy, School-Parent Compact, and plans for shared student achievement for the upcoming school year.
The documents outline the school’s goals for academic success, parent involvement, communication, and community partnerships as part of the school’s Title I program.
According to the information released by CHS Principal Roger Wilkinson, the school’s goals include providing a supportive learning environment, maintaining a safe and orderly campus, and maximizing personal growth and academic achievement for all students.
The plans also detail ways parents can stay involved through activities such as Meet the Teacher/Open House, One Tribe Nights, Title I meetings, School Council meetings, FAFSA Parent Night, and other engagement opportunities throughout the school year.
School officials say the plans are designed to strengthen partnerships among students, parents, teachers, and the community while improving student achievement and communication between home and school.
Upcoming events listed in the plans include:
- Meet the Teacher/Open House on July 23, 2026
- Annual Title I Meeting on August 18, 2026
- Fall One Tribe Night on September 16, 2026
- Spring One Tribe Night on February 25, 2027
Parents are encouraged to participate in the CHS School Community Team and provide feedback throughout the school year.
Additional information is available through Chattooga High School or the Chattooga County Schools Title I Office.
Governor Signs Bill Expanding Medical Cannabis Access In Georgia
Governor Brian Kemp has signed legislation expanding access to medical cannabis in Georgia.
The bill, known as the “Putting Georgia’s Patients First Act,” goes into effect statewide on Wednesday, July 1.
Under the new law, low THC oil is now referred to as “medical cannabis” in Georgia legal code. The measure also updates the list of medical conditions that allow patients to qualify for a medical cannabis registration card.
Among the changes, patients with lupus will now be eligible. The law also removes some previous requirements that certain qualifying conditions be considered “severe” or “end-stage.”
The legislation also revises renewal procedures for medical cannabis cards and clarifies that lawful medical use is excluded from the Georgia Controlled Substances Act.
Smoking and vaping medical cannabis will remain prohibited for individuals under the age of 21, but allowed for those older than 21. Use of medical cannabis is still restricted in public places.
Recreational marijuana remains illegal in Georgia.
Georgia DNR Announces New Battlefield Preservation Grant
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has announced a new grant program aimed at protecting historic battlefield lands across the state.
The new Vince Dooley Battlefield Trust Fund Program will provide matching grants to qualified nonprofit organizations and state agencies working to acquire or permanently protect eligible battlefield properties in Georgia.
Eligible sites include battlefields recognized in national historic preservation reports by the National Park Service and the Civil War Sites Advisory Commission.
The program will offer annual funding cycles on a first-come, first-served basis. Grants may cover up to 50 percent of eligible land purchases or conservation easements, with applicants required to provide matching funds.
Eligible applicants include nonprofit charitable organizations focused on historic land preservation, as well as state agencies that conserve natural, cultural, or historical resources.
Applications must be submitted through the Georgia DNR’s online grant portal.
Arrest Report - Sunday - May 17, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Strong Storms Possible Across North Georgia Today; Hotter Temperatures Ahead This Week
Forecasters say scattered showers and strong to severe thunderstorms could develop across north and central Georgia this afternoon and continue into the early evening hours.
The primary threats from any stronger storms will be damaging wind gusts and hail. Some storms could produce wind gusts exceeding 60 miles per hour along with nickel to quarter-sized hail.
The National Weather Service has placed much of the area under a Marginal Risk for severe weather today. Meteorologists say increasing moisture and instability, combined with afternoon heat, will help fuel thunderstorm development through the day.
High temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 80s and lower 90s today and Monday, creating favorable conditions for storms during the peak heating hours of the afternoon.
The severe weather threat is expected to diminish quickly after sunset tonight.
Looking ahead, warmer temperatures will continue through much of the week with highs remaining in the 80s and low 90s. Rain chances are expected to increase again beginning Wednesday as a slow-moving cold front approaches the Southeast.
Forecasters say showers and thunderstorms are likely to become more widespread from midweek into late week, especially across north Georgia. While widespread organized severe weather is not currently expected later in the week, isolated strong storms and heavy rainfall will remain possible.