On Sunday, 39-year-old Jario Cruz Gutierriez-Vargas of Atlanta, Georgia was killed in an accident on Highway 114 in Lyerly. The driver of the vehicle was charged with DUI and Homicide by Vehicle. The Georgia State Patrol arrested Jeffrey Vega and booked him into the Chattooga County Jail. Now, Immigration and Customs Enforcement have placed a hold on Vega. Local law enforcement say that usually indicates that the federal agency will be picking up the suspect. More information will be released as it becomes available.

Exceeding posted speed limits costs you significantly more than just a standard speeding ticket in Georgia.  The state’s “Super Speeder” law levies a hefty $200 state fee on top of local fines for those caught driving at excessive speeds. This law applies to anyone convicted of speeding at 75 mph or more on a two-lane road, or 85 mph or more on any road or highway within the state, regardless of whether they are a Georgia resident or an out-of-state visitor.

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Country music icon Clint Black is bringing his “Back On The Blacktop Tour,” which includes a stop in Northwest Georgia.  Black is celebrating the 30th anniversary of his groundbreaking debut album, “Killin’ Time”, to the Forum River Center in Rome, on Friday, June 13, 2025. A member of the legendary Class of ’89, exploded onto the scene with “Killin’ Time”, which quickly achieved triple-platinum status and spawned five consecutive number one singles, forever changing the landscape of country music. He continued his meteoric rise with the triple-platinum follow-up, “Put Yourself in My Shoes”, and a string of hit albums throughout the 1990’s. A prolific songwriter, Black has penned or co-written over three dozen hits, including fan favorites like “A Better Man” and “Summer’s Comin’,” amassing an impressive 22 number one singles throughout his career. His remarkable achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including a GRAMMY Award and a coveted star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The concert in Rome will celebrate three decades of Clint Black’s incredible musical journey. The concert kicks off at 7:30 PM. Tickets are priced at $45 and are available for purchase HERE

The City of Summerville and the Summerville Parks and Recreation Department have announced the grand opening for the new city pickleball courts coming up this Saturday, May 10th. The public is invited to join in the festivities, which will kick off at 10 AM with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Summerville Recreation Department, located at 220 Hwy 100 in Summerville. Following the ribbon cutting, attendees can enjoy playing on the new courts and celebrating the community’s latest recreational addition. The grand opening celebration will run from 10 AM until Noon, and will include a cookout at 11 AM.  Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport that is fun for all ages and skill levels. The City of Summerville believes these courts will be a valuable asset to the community, promoting health, fitness, and social interaction.

The City of Summerville is soliciting sealed bids for the demolition of a property and subsequent site restoration located at 20 University Circle, Summerville, Georgia 30747. The deadline for submitting bids is this Friday, May 9th at 2 PM.  Interested parties are invited to submit their sealed bids to the City of Summerville, 120 Georgia Ave., Summerville, Georgia 30747. All bids must remain valid for 60 business days. The bid opening will take place in the City Hall Council Room, where the contents will be made public. The announcement will allow for transparency and access to information for respondents and other interested parties. Bidders are advised that all submissions are subject to the conditions and provisions outlined in the detailed bid document, which is available for review here:  Bid Document

Get ready for a weekend of dust, daring feats, and rodeo excitement as Lowry’s 4L Ranch prepares to host its annual Back Rodeo on May 16th and 17th. The event, presented by Harvey’s Southend Auto and Mathis Equipment, promises to be a spectacular showcase of skill and competition. The rodeo kicks off at 8 PM each night at Lowry’s Covered Arena, conveniently located on Farmersville Rd, just off Hwy 27 South of Summerville. This year’s rodeo is expected to be bigger and better than ever, featuring talented riders and thrilling events that are sure to keep spectators on the edge of their seats. Tickets are currently available for purchase in advance at a discounted rate. Adult tickets (ages 12 and up) are $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. Children’s tickets (ages 6-11) are $10, both in advance and at the gate. Children five and under will be admitted free of charge. Don’t miss out on this exciting local event! Advanced tickets can be purchased at the following locations: * United Community Bank – Summerville & Mt. Berry Square Rome * Dirttown Deli – Gore * Southern Living Farm & Garden – Trion * Pineridge Outdoor Supply – Lyerly Gates open at 6 PM each night, offering ample time for attendees to grab a good seat and enjoy the atmosphere before the rodeo action begins. Please note that only cash will be accepted at the gate.