Here’s the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, April 22, 2025:

The City of Summerville is currently conducting essential fire hydrant testing throughout its water system, a process expected to continue throughout the late Spring and early Summer of 2025.

Residents may occasionally experience temporary lower water pressure and/or discolored water as a result of pressure variations during the testing process. The City acknowledges the inconvenience this may cause and asks for the public’s patience as it works to ensure the integrity and reliability of the Summerville water system.

This testing is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of fire hydrants. Temporary fluctuations in water pressure or discoloration can be expected . The City will make every effort to notify residents in advance when low water pressure or discoloration is anticipated in specific areas. Residents are advised to flush their water lines by running cold water for a few minutes if discoloration occurs.

The City of Summerville appreciates the public’s understanding and cooperation as it undertakes this necessary maintenance.

Northwest Georgia residents should prepare for a week of scattered thunderstorms, according to the latest weather forecast. While widespread severe weather is not anticipated, isolated thunderstorms are expected to develop this afternoon and evening and continue intermittently through next Monday.

The primary threats associated with these storms will be heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and frequent lightning. The National Weather Service predicts the highest chances of thunderstorms will be across North Georgia, with a 70% chance of precipitation today, which could bring between a half and three-quarters of an inch of rainfall. High temperatures are expected to hover around 75 degrees.

The unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue through the week, with probabilities of showers and thunderstorms remaining between 50-70%. Temperatures will gradually climb into the low 80s by the end of the week.

Residents are advised to stay informed of changing weather conditions and take necessary precautions, including seeking shelter indoors during thunderstorms and avoiding outdoor activities when lightning is present.

The Chattooga County housing market has undergone a significant shift, transitioning from a seller’s market last year to a buyer’s market in March 2025, according to the latest housing market report. This change indicates that home prices are trending lower and properties are staying on the market for a longer period, creating opportunities for potential homebuyers. The median sold price in Chattooga County reached $206,333 in March 2025, reflecting a 9.2% increase compared to March 2024.

The median price per square foot also rose to $141. While prices have increased year-over-year, the buyer’s market dynamic suggests that negotiating opportunities exist. Interestingly, the report shows varied price trends across different property types. Homes with five or more bedrooms saw a dramatic price surge of 70.4%, while four-bedroom homes experienced a slight decrease of 4.5%. One and two-bedroom homes also saw significant price increases of 13.7% and 11.1% respectively, while 3-bedroom homes only increased by 1%. The number of homes for sale in Chattooga County increased by 12.4% from February to March 2025, reaching a total of 109 properties. This increase in inventory further contributes to the buyer’s market conditions. The amount of 4 bedroom homes increased by 35.7% from February to March.

The report also highlights that a significant majority (81.8%) of homes sold below the asking price in March 2025, suggesting that buyers have leverage in negotiations. However, the average time a home spends on the market has increased significantly, from 52 days in March 2024 to 76 days in March 2025, a 46.5% increase. Compared to neighboring counties, Chattooga County’s median sold price remains lower than Walker County ($250,600) and Floyd County ($251,500).

These factors combined paint a picture of a shifting housing landscape in Chattooga County, where buyers now have the upper hand.

Source: Rocket Homes

The Berry College Dance Company is set to captivate audiences with their upcoming performance, “Spring Into Dance,” scheduled for April 25th at 7 p.m. and April 26th and 27th at 2 p.m. each day. The performance will be held at the Sisters Theatre on the Berry College campus. The production promises a diverse range of dance styles and choreography, showcasing the talent and dedication of the student dancers. Student choreographer Amanda Magle expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the rewarding nature of bringing her vision to life. “There is no better feeling than watching the first run-through of a finished dance,” Magle stated. “It is so gratifying to see your choreography come to life and your dancers’ hard work pay off.” Tickets for “Spring Into Dance” are now available for purchase online at cur8.com/21139/project/130696. General admission is $10, and tickets for children under 12 are $5. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the artistry and passion of the Berry College Dance Company.

Robert Smith, 35, of Cookeville, Tennessee, died Wednesday following a vehicle pursuit and self-inflicted gunshot wound in Whitfield County, Georgia. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is investigating the incident at the request of the Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office.

Smith was wanted for aggravated assault in Nashville, TN. According to preliminary information, Smith traveled to Georgia on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, where he abandoned his vehicle in the Atlanta metropolitan area. He was then driven north by an acquaintance. During a stop at a convenience store in Calhoun, GA, the acquaintance fled into the store and requested employees call 911. Calhoun Police Department officers responded and attempted to engage with Smith. Smith allegedly fired a single shot in the direction of the officers. He then carjacked a customer’s vehicle and fled northbound on Interstate 75. Following the shooting incident, the Calhoun Police Department issued a “Be On the Lookout” (BOLO) alert for the stolen vehicle. Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office deputies located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop. According to reports, Smith fired a weapon at the deputies while driving. The pursuit concluded when Smith shot himself, causing the vehicle to crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene. No officers discharged their weapons during the incident. Smith’s body will be transported to the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

The GBI encourages anyone with information regarding this incident to contact them. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app. Upon completion of the investigation, the case will be handed over to the Whitfield County District Attorney’s Office for review.

Even though the current school year is still underway, Chattooga Family Connection is already hard at work planning its annual ‘Back to School Bash.’ This year’s event, a community staple that provides free resources and fun for students and families, is scheduled for July 17th, 2025. The Back to School Bash will take place at Chattooga High School from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, offering a range of activities and resources designed to help Chattooga and Trion students prepare for a successful academic year. Attendees can expect to find information on various community programs, access to essential school supplies (while supplies last), and engaging activities for children of all ages. Chattooga Family Connection invites community members to get involved in making this year’s Back to School Bash the best one yet. Those interested in volunteering or sponsoring the event can contact Chattooga Family Connection at CHATTFC@WINDSTREAM.NET. Chattooga Family Connection is a community-based collaborative working to improve the lives of children and families in Chattooga County.

The average gas price in Georgia is decreasing, now at $2. 92 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline. This price is 6 cents lower than last week, 2 cents higher than a month ago, and 51 cents lower than last year. Filling a 15-gallon tank costs drivers about $43. 80, which is nearly $8. 00 less than a year ago.

Montrae Waiters, a spokesperson for AAA, mentioned that falling oil prices are likely due to economic uncertainty and concerns about a potential recession. This decrease in crude oil prices has led to lower demand, and if the trend continues, pump prices could keep dropping as summer approaches.

Nationally, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline has also dropped by 3 cents to $3. 15, influenced by soft demand and lower crude prices. Slightly increased gasoline demand was noted, rising from 8. 42 to 8. 46 million barrels a day, while total domestic gasoline supply fell from 236. 0 million barrels to 234. 0 million barrels. Gasoline production averaged 9. 4 million barrels per day.

In the oil market, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled at $62. 47 a barrel, with crude oil inventories up by 0. 5 million barrels, now at 442. 9 million barrels, which is about 6% below the five-year average for this time of year.

The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are Athens-Atlanta ($2.97), Savannah ($2.96), and Macon ($2.92).

The least expensive metro markets in Georgia are Dalton ($2.80), Augusta-Aiken ($2.77), and Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.76).

Area gas price averages – Chattooga ($2.88), Walker ($2.80), Floyd ($2.81), Gordon ($2.86), DeKalb, AL ($2.80), Cherokee, AL ($2.80).

Summerville City Hall will be closing its doors early on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 11:30 AM for its annual Employee Appreciation Day. The closure is to allow city staff to participate in a day of recognition and celebration of their hard work and dedication. Normal business hours will resume on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 8:00 AM. City officials encourage residents to plan accordingly for any necessary city services. In the event of an emergency during the closure, residents are reminded to dial 911.

State Senator Jason Esteves, a Democrat representing Atlanta, announced Monday his intention to run for Governor of Georgia in the 2026 election. Esteves, elected to the Senate in 2022 and currently serving his second term, aims to succeed term-limited Republican Governor Brian Kemp. Before his tenure in the State Senate, Esteves served nearly a decade on the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education. He has consistently championed education, healthcare, and housing as key priorities throughout his career in public service. “As extreme politicians in Georgia push (President Donald) Trump’s reckless agenda and rig the system for special interests, Georgians pay the price,” Esteves stated in a prepared statement. “Now more than ever, we need to tackle the high cost of living, improve access to health care, protect women’s reproductive freedom, lower housing costs, and invest in schools across the state.” Esteves is the first Democrat to officially announce his candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial race. U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath (D-Marietta) briefly considered a run, forming an exploratory committee last month, but ultimately suspended her campaign to care for her husband who is recovering from cancer surgery. On the Republican side, Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr launched his campaign late last year. Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger are also considered potential contenders for the GOP nomination.

Want to know the prime fishing spots in Georgia without even stepping out your door? The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) has you covered with easy-to-access online fishing forecasts and weekly reports, providing anglers with the latest intel straight from the pros.

Forget guesswork. GeorgiaWildlife.com now hosts updated annual fishing forecasts for 32 reservoirs and 19 rivers across the state. These comprehensive forecasts, compiled by WRD fisheries biologists and technicians, offer invaluable insights including “best bets” for specific species, recommended techniques, and more. Each forecast is linked to an interactive map, providing an extra layer of detailed information to help you plan your next fishing trip. But that’s not all. For the most up-to-date information on what’s biting and where, be sure to check out the weekly Georgia Fishing Report, published every Friday on the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division blog (GeorgiaWildlife.blog/category/fishing/).

This report consolidates news from field personnel, partner organizations like Trout Unlimited, and experienced fishing guides, ensuring you have the freshest intelligence available. You can even subscribe to receive the report directly in your inbox each week! For more information on fishing in Georgia, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/fishing/angler-resources. Start planning your next successful fishing adventure today!

Residents of Northwest Georgia should be prepared for the possibility of isolated thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. According to the National Weather Service, a few storms could produce an isolated damaging wind gust in far Northwest Georgia, where a Marginal Risk of severe thunderstorms (Level 1 out of 5) is in effect. The forecast for the remainder of the week calls for continued chances of isolated thunderstorms across North and Central Georgia from Tuesday through Saturday, with the highest probabilities in North Georgia. While widespread severe storms are not expected at this time, residents should remain aware of changing weather conditions. Today, there’s a 30 percent chance of showers after 3 PM. The day will be mostly sunny with a high near 84 degrees Fahrenheit. Southwest winds will blow between 5 and 10 mph, with gusts reaching up to 20 mph. Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are likely, primarily before 2 AM, followed by a likely chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 3 AM. Expect mostly cloudy skies and a low around 61 degrees. Precipitation chances stand at 70%, with potential rainfall amounts between a quarter and a half of an inch. Tuesday brings an 80% chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm, with a high near 77 degrees. Rainfall amounts are expected to be similar to tonight. The unsettled weather pattern is predicted to persist through Wednesday and Thursday, with continued chances of showers and thunderstorms.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, April 21, 2025:

An attempt to smuggle contraband into Hays State Prison was thwarted last week after a drone delivery went awry, leaving a trail of tobacco and cell phones scattered near the facility. According to Chattooga County Sheriff’s reports, deputies responded to a call regarding suspicious bags of tobacco found on a property adjacent to the prison. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies discovered several vacuum-sealed bags of what appeared to be tobacco strewn across the ground. Further investigation led them to a black bag lodged in a tree above the scattered tobacco. With the homeowner’s assistance, deputies retrieved the bag and found it contained additional vacuum-sealed bags of tobacco and two prepaid AT&T cell phones. “This discovery is indicative of an attempt to smuggle contraband into the facility,” stated the sheriff’s report. All seized items, including the tobacco and cell phones, have been placed into evidence and will be examined to determine their origin and intended recipients within the prison. The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Department is continuing to investigate the incident.

A Trion man is set to face trial after being indicted by the Chattooga County Grand Jury last week on multiple counts of sex crimes involving children. According to grand jury records, Daniel Luke Cornett, of 191 Elm Street, Trion, was indicted on two counts of aggravated child molestation, two counts of statutory rape, and two counts of child molestation. The indictment comes after evidence was presented to the grand jury saying that Cornett engaged in sexual intercourse with a child between January 5, 2024, and February 26, 2024. The grand jury found enough evidence for Cornett to stand trial on the charges. The case will now proceed to trial in Chattooga County Superior Court.

Coffman Funeral Home Pettit Chapel is nearing completion of a new crematory, marking a significant development for funeral services in Chattooga County. Responding to rising cremation rates and increasing funeral costs, the facility will offer local families the option of in-county cremation services, ensuring their loved ones remain under Coffman’s care from start to finish. Owner Jamey Coffman cites a surge in cremation requests since the COVID-19 pandemic, with cremation services now accounting for nearly half of his business. Beyond evolving cultural preferences, the escalating costs of traditional burials, including rising cemetery fees, are a major factor driving the shift. “Everything is just getting more and more expensive,” Coffman stated, highlighting the financial strain traditional burials place on families. The new crematory, constructed within an existing structure behind the funeral home, will house a state-of-the-art cremation machine powered by natural gas. This allows Coffman Funeral Home to provide comprehensive, in-house cremation services, keeping families local and ensuring loved ones never leave their care. The crematory is expected to be fully operational later this year.

The City of Summerville is currently accepting applications for a Part-Time Main Street Assistant to support the Main Street Manager in daily operations and community initiatives. This position offers a dynamic opportunity to contribute to the beautification and vibrancy of Summerville’s downtown area. The Main Street Part-Time Assistant will be responsible for watering and maintaining the decorative planters that enhance the downtown streetscape. A key aspect of the role involves assisting with a variety of special events, including those held at the depot and throughout downtown, as well as participating in ongoing beautification projects. Candidates must be prepared for physical demands, including the ability to lift 50-75 lbs. The position involves a combination of fieldwork and office duties. Flexibility is crucial, as the role requires availability for flexible hours, including limited weekends and evenings. Minimum qualifications include possessing a valid driver’s license. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit an employment application to the City of Summerville. You can find a link to apply online HERE

The head of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce issued a stark warning about the growing impact of international trade tariffs on the state’s economy.

Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber, stated that the ongoing trade war, particularly between the United States and China, is now directly affecting businesses across all sectors in Georgia. “All of our businesses in Georgia are trying to make sense right now in Washington, particularly in Beijing,” Clark said. “We are seeing impacts across the board to every sector in the state.” Clark highlighted the potential negative effects on Georgia’s thriving film industry, noting that China’s National Film Administration is limiting the number of U.S. productions allowed in the Chinese market. He also expressed concerns about rising costs for construction companies due to tariffs on steel and concrete, and the unease felt by farmers in the agricultural sector. The Trump administration has imposed a 10% tariff on most U.S. imports, with a significantly higher 145% tariff on goods from China.

Clark is advising Georgia businesses to explore diversifying their markets, suggesting they look to countries like India and Indonesia as alternative trade partners. He also urged businesses to stockpile products where possible to mitigate potential supply chain disruptions. “I’ve encouraged the small businesses that I have talked to look to India, look at Indonesia and look at other market partners right now and go ahead and start ordering and start diversifying your product line today,” Clark said. “You should not wait thinking in 90 days this will all go away and be better. I think we’re in particularly on the Chinese front we are in for a long haul here.” The Georgia Chamber is currently advising larger employers, particularly in the manufacturing sector, to stockpile goods and products they are importing.

The Chamber emphasizes that the volatility and uncertainty of the trade battle pose a significant challenge for Georgia companies as they work to evaluate potential disruptions.

Patty Durand, a former candidate for the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), has launched a new nonprofit organization, Georgia Utility Watch, dedicated to bringing transparency and accountability to energy regulation in the state.

The organization aims to advocate for fair electric rates, a more transparent PSC, and more accountable state leadership on energy issues. Durand’s initiative comes after what she describes as a lack of oversight regarding utility policies in Georgia. In her inaugural newsletter, she stated, “Decisions are made with complete disregard for the state mandate to set rates that are just and reasonable. Never, ever are people prioritized or protected.” Durand specifically pointed to a 23.7% rate increase for Georgia Power’s residential customers last year, which she believes went unchecked by the PSC and the General Assembly. She also criticized the legislature’s failure to reinstate the Consumer Utility Counsel, which was disbanded in 2008, and Governor Kemp’s veto of a bill that would have temporarily suspended a tax exemption for data centers. Further, a bill aimed at preventing Georgia Power from passing on data center electricity costs to residential customers failed to reach a Senate vote.

Durand also highlighted the alarming statistic that nearly 200,000 Georgia Power households were disconnected last year, underscoring the urgency of the issues Georgia Utility Watch aims to address.

The organization plans to advocate for policy changes and increased public awareness regarding energy regulation in Georgia.