The Calhoun Fire Department, in collaboration with the Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office, is currently investigating a fire that broke out at Georgia Apache Mills, located at 501 Oak Street, on last Sunday, January 26, at 4:17 PM. The fire department responded swiftly to the scene, but the cause and circumstances surrounding the fire remain under investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing inquiry. “Any piece of information, no matter how small, could be crucial to our investigation,” said Investigator Nathan Saylors of the Calhoun Fire Department. Individuals who can provide insights or details are encouraged to contact Saylors directly at 706-263-5293. Additionally, tips can be submitted anonymously through the Georgia Arson Control Hotline at 1-800-282-5804 or via the website at www.georgiaarsoncontrol.org. In a proactive effort to combat arson, a reward of up to $10,000 is being offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for this fire.
The Lookout Mountain Court Circuit District Attorney’s office is investigating a case involving fake property deeds linked to Atlanta developer Marlena Barnett, the CEO of “The Lakes of Summerville. ” Allegations claim that Barnett filed counterfeit deeds for land she did not own in Chattooga County, causing significant financial losses for unsuspecting buyers. At least 11 victims from multiple states have reported being misled into buying non-existent properties, leaving them without valid deeds. One victim paid $15,000 for what he thought was a legitimate investment but only received a partial refund after months of uncertainty. Similar experiences have been shared by others from across the country who purchased the deeds, revealing a pattern of deception. The district attorney’s office is considering consolidating all claims to simplify the legal process for the victims and will provide updates as the investigation continues. Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader noted that charges against Barnett have not yet been filed. Sheriff Schrader said that he is relying on updates from the District Attorney going forward and no charges have yet been made.
The Board of Commissioners of Walker County, Georgia, will hold a meeting this Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 6:00 p. m. at the County Courthouse Annex III located at 201 South Main Street in LaFayette. The agenda includes approval of previous meeting minutes and a public hearing on planning and zoning matters, including variance requests for zoning issues. The meeting will also discuss a proclamation for Spay/Neuter Month, and presentations regarding a wireless communications facility. Key resolutions include the appointment of a county attorney and spending of 2020 SPLOST funds. The public is invited to attend.
Residents of Chattooga County are reminded that the deadline to register to vote or update existing voter registration records for the upcoming Special Election on March 18, 2025, is fast approaching. Voters will be going to the polls to vote for the Special Local Option Sales Tax next month.
In a celebration of Georgia’s rich heritage, Super Museum Sunday is set to take place on February 9th, 2025, inviting history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike to explore dozens of museums, historic sites, and cultural institutions across the state without spending a dime.
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce has announced its new executive board of directors, which includes Chairwoman Liza Morgan, Immediate Past Chair Paul Meredith, Chair-elect Zach White, and Secretary/Treasurer Heather Casey. This board is committed to boosting community engagement and supporting local businesses. Additionally, the Chamber introduced the 2025 Leadership Chattooga Class, which aims to develop future leaders in the community. Participants in this class come from various sectors and include Amy Anderson (UGA Extension), Ashley Campbell (Summerville Housing Authority), Angie Culbert (Chattooga High School), Daniel Helton (Atrium Health Floyd EMS), Sheila Morrison (Mount Vernon Mills), and Talisyn Ridley (Family Resource Agency of North GA). They will partake in a program that focuses on communication, teamwork, and influence. The Chamber encourages all members and residents to support the new board and the Leadership Chattooga Class in their efforts to improve the community.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College is proud to announce the students on the President’s and Dean’s Lists. Congratulations to all of these students for their hard work and effort for the past semester. To be eligible for the President’s List, the student must maintain a quarterly GPA of 3.8 or higher with a course load of at least 12 credit hours. To be eligible for the Dean’s List the student must maintain a quarterly GPA of 3.5 to 3.79 with a course load of at least 12 credit hours.