WZQZ has reported on higher car insurance premiums in Chattooga County, but what some drivers may not realize is, your credit score could be driving up those car insurance premiums. Minimum coverage in the county averages around $1,013 annually, while full coverage can cost upwards of $2,901. These figures surpass the national averages of $808 for minimum coverage and $2,692 for full coverage, as reported by Bankrate.
Chattooga Family Connection is preparing to host its annual Back-to-School Bash on July 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Chattooga High School Gym. This year’s goal is to equip 400 students from Trion School and Chattooga County School systems with the essential school supplies they need for a successful academic year.
AAA – The Auto Club Group projects a staggering 1.38 million Georgians will travel 50 miles or more from home this Memorial Day weekend, a significant increase of nearly 45,000 compared to last year’s figures. Nationwide, the numbers are even more impressive.
With an active hurricane season predicted and wildfires posing a threat to parts of the Southeast, the American Red Cross is urging the public to download its Emergency App to stay informed and prepared. According to Patti Duckworth, Executive Director of the Northeast Georgia chapter, now is the crucial time to take proactive steps. “Preparation is key, and the Emergency App provides essential information and resources to help individuals and families navigate any type of disaster,” Duckworth stated. The free app can be downloaded at www.redcross.org/apps or through the Apple App Store and Google Play. It offers real-time alerts, safety tips, shelter locations, and other vital resources during emergencies. Beyond encouraging preparedness, the Red Cross is actively seeking volunteers to support its disaster relief efforts, service to armed forces, biomedical services, and other vital programs. Duckworth emphasized that comprehensive training is provided to all willing volunteers. In related news, Duckworth, who has served as the interim leader for the Northwest Georgia chapter for the past couple of months, will be departing from that role. The chapter is set to welcome Tina Dean, a long-time Red Cross employee, as its new Executive Director on May 27th.
A 52-year-old Armuchee man, Billy Kenneth Stockton, was arrested this week following reports of inappropriate online communications with an individual he believed to be under the age of 16. According to police reports, Stockton allegedly sent numerous nude photographs to the victim and solicited nude photos in return. Authorities also allege that Stockton described specific sexual acts he wished to perform with the child. In addition to the online exploitation charges, police also cited Stockton for having excessive window tint on his vehicle, exceeding the legal limit. Stockton now faces a multitude of charges including sexual exploitation of a child, obscene internet contact with a child, use of a computer to solicit a child to commit an illegal act, and three counts of electronically furnishing obscene materials to a child.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed a series of bills into law on Monday, marking a significant step towards bolstering Georgia’s workforce and expanding educational opportunities for students across the state. The package of legislation aims to connect students with higher education, prepare them for high-demand careers, and provide crucial financial support.
Mr. Wallace Edward Howell, age 95, of Summerville, GA, died Sunday, May 11, 2025, at Atrium Health Floyd-Chattooga.
Mr. Howell was born October 22, 1929, in Hamilton, AL, son of the late James Monroe Howell and Nicie Sumner Howell. He was a member of Welcome Hill Baptist Church, and prior to his retirement, was employed with Roper. Mr. Howell loved hunting and fishing and also enjoyed woodworking.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ressie Thomas Howell; brothers, Wilburn Howell, Cleveland Howell, Max Howell, and Dennis Howell; sisters, Ethel Brown, Stella Beard, Jessie Bethune, Lura Bell Precise, Dorothy Byrd, Dorris Nixon, and Dean Page; and a granddaughter, Pamela Jaysie Parris.
Survivors include his daughters, Tammy (David) Cooper, Pam Murphy (Randy Swafford), and Angie (Kenny) Koonce; sisters, Verlene Pope and Kathy Howell; 4 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held at a later date.
To share your condolences with the family online, please visit our website at www.masonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are provided by Mason Funeral Home- Summerville, GA.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, May 13, 2025:
Residents across Northwest Georgia can expect some sunshine today, but the threat of rain and thunderstorms remains present. According to local weather reports, there’s a 60% chance of precipitation, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms developing into showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 3 PM. The day will be partly sunny with a high near 76 degrees. While the wind will be calm initially, it’s expected to shift southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. The potential for isolated thunderstorms continues into tonight, with a slight risk of storms producing strong winds. Looking ahead, Wednesday will also see isolated thunderstorms, some of which could bring strong winds or hail. The evening will be partly cloudy with a low around 63 degrees. Thursday promises mostly sunny skies with a high near 87 degrees . Winds will be from the southwest at 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph. Thursday night will be mostly cloudy with a low around 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The forecast for Friday includes a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 PM, with mostly cloudy conditions and a high near 87 degrees. The chance of showers and thunderstorms increases to 50 percent on Friday night, mainly after 8 PM. Saturday brings a continuing chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 2 PM. The day will be partly sunny with a high near 86 degrees and a 50% chance of precipitation. Residents are advised to stay informed of weather updates and take necessary precautions in the event of severe weather.
