Residents of Northwest Georgia are enjoying a period of exceptionally clear and warm weather today, thanks to a strong high-pressure system that has settled firmly over the region. This dominating atmospheric feature is suppressing typical autumn cloudiness, ushering in a stretch of stable conditions and daytime temperatures significantly warmer than the seasonal average.

The high-pressure system, which drives air downward, acts as a meteorological lid, effectively preventing moisture from rising and cooling into rain clouds. This mechanism is the key reason for the near-perfect visibility and low precipitation forecast across the area.

Today, temperatures are expected to climb to a high near 82°F, putting the region firmly in late-summer territory despite the changing calendar.

Light Winds and Low Rain Chances

Meteorologists confirm that the stability provided by the high-pressure system ensures minimal weather disruptions. Chance of widespread rain remains exceedingly low throughout the day.

However, residents should note a minor caveat: lingering moisture from previous systems, combined with the region’s hilly terrain, creates a slight possibility of very isolated, short-lived showers. These events are expected to be brief and highly localized.

Winds remain light and variable, generally coming from the east or northeast at a gentle 5 to 10 mph, with occasional gusts up to 15 mph. Furthermore, humidity levels are expected to drop throughout the day, reaching a comfortable 55% during the warmest afternoon hours.

Stable Conditions Extend Through the Weekend

The high-pressure pattern is set to hold strong through the end of the workweek and into the weekend, promising extended sunshine for outdoor plans.

The extended forecast shows:

Friday: A continuation of the sunny trend, with a high near 80°F and light east winds. Friday night will be mostly clear, with lows around 55°F.
Saturday: Expected to be the warmest day of the stretch, with highs pushing near 82°F. Skies will be mostly sunny, maintaining the stable pattern.
Saturday Night: Partly cloudy skies with mild lows around 62°F.

Outlook Shifts Early Next Week

While the immediate forecast is sunny and stable, a gradual shift in the weather pattern is anticipated starting Sunday.

Sunday will feature partly sunny conditions with highs near 80°F, but the stability of the high-pressure system will begin to wane. Sunday night introduces the first significant chance of moisture, with a 20 percent chance of showers forecast, leading to mostly cloudy skies and a warmer low around 66°F.

The shift culminates on Monday, which carries a 30 percent chance of precipitation, including possible afternoon thunderstorms after 2 p.m. High temperatures will remain warm, near 79°F, but the region will transition back toward more typical, variable autumn conditions.

The Summerville Recreation Department officially launched registration for its highly anticipated 2025-2026 Youth Basketball League at midnight on Wednesday, October 1st. Parents are encouraged to sign their children up early to secure a spot and take advantage of the discounted registration fee for the winter program.

The Summerville Rec league offers a fun, structured environment for young athletes to develop their skills, teamwork, and love for the game throughout the holiday season and into the new year.

Key Deadlines and Cost Savings

To ensure a spot on the court, parents should note the important registration deadlines and cost tiers:

Registration is open now and can be completed quickly and conveniently online at the department’s official website: www.summervillerec.org.

Program Structure and Schedule

The youth basketball program is set to tip off its official season on Saturday, December 6, 2025, and will run through Saturday, February 7, 2026.

According to the Recreation Department, practices for all age groups are scheduled to begin in mid to late November, giving teams ample time to prepare for the 10-game regular season schedule.

A player draft will be mandatory for any age group that achieves two or more teams. These drafts are scheduled to take place the week following the close of the sign-up period.

Age Divisions Offered

The basketball program is open to athletes ranging from ages 5 through 14. Age determination for placement in the following divisions is based on the child’s age as of September 1, 2025:

• 5/6 Coed
• 7/8 Boys & Girls
• 9/10 Boys & Girls
• 11/12 Boys & Girls
• 13/14 Boys & Girls

Parents needing additional information regarding league rules, practice schedules, or general registration questions should visit the Summerville Recreation Department website or contact the main office during business hours.

Chattooga County Elections and Registration announced this week that a special election has been called for November 4, 2025, presenting residents with two crucial ballot questions concerning new sales and use taxes. The election will coincide with the Statewide Special Election for Public Service Commission Districts 2 and 3, aiming to maximize voter participation.

Voters will be asked to approve or reject two distinct, one percent (1%) sales and use tax proposals, one dedicated to road improvements and the other exclusively for property tax reduction.

Proposal 1: Road Improvement Sales Tax (1% for up to 6 years)

The first question on the ballot will ask: “Shall a special 1 percent sales and use tax be imposed in the special district consisting of Chattooga County for a period of time not to exceed six (6) years and for the raising of an estimated amount of $20,500,000 in revenue for the purposes of County and City road improvement projects consisting of road paving, patching, resurfacing, widening, and improvements to intersections, crosswalks, and road drainage throughout Chattooga County?”

If approved, this sales tax would generate an estimated $20.5 million over a maximum of six years. These funds would be specifically earmarked for comprehensive road work, including paving, patching, resurfacing, widening, and enhancing intersections, crosswalks, and drainage systems across all of Chattooga County’s road networks. This initiative aims to address the long-standing infrastructure needs of both the county and its municipalities.

Proposal 2: Property Tax Reduction Sales Tax (1% for 5 years)

The second, separate question voters will face is: “Shall a special one percent (1%) sales and use tax be imposed for 5 years within the special district of Chattooga County with the proceeds used exclusively to reduce property taxes imposed by Chattooga County and the Municipalities of Lyerly, Menlo, and Trion?”

This proposal also seeks to implement a one percent (1%) sales and use tax, but for a period of five years. Crucially, all proceeds from this particular tax would be used exclusively to directly reduce the property taxes levied by Chattooga County and the individual municipalities of Lyerly, Menlo, and Trion. This measure is intended to provide direct financial relief to property owners within the county by offsetting a portion of their local property tax burden.

Chattooga County residents are encouraged to carefully review both proposals as they will have significant and distinct impacts on local services, infrastructure, and personal finances. Further details regarding voter registration, absentee balloting, and early voting dates will be released by the Chattooga County Elections and Registration office closer to the November 4, 2025 election date.

The City of Summerville and Summerville Main Street have officially announced the date for the 2025 Mini Renaissance Festival: Saturday, October 11th, 2025. Set to transform the historic Summerville Depot into a vibrant world of medieval fantasy, the free event promises a day of immersive entertainment and excitement for all ages.

“Hear ye, hear ye! A Renaissance Call to Arms has been sounded!” declared organizers in a recent announcement. Attendees are invited to prepare for a “rollicking good time” and immerse themselves in “a world of chivalry, romance, and epic fun.” The festival aims to delight and amaze with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings.

Guests can look forward to a full day packed with live entertainment, unique shopping opportunities featuring artisan crafts, captivating art displays, thrilling games, and a “feast fit for a King” with a variety of food vendors. Best of all, admission to this grand celebration is absolutely free, making it an accessible event for families and enthusiasts alike. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in character to fully embrace the spirit of the age, or simply come to enjoy the spectacular sights and sounds.

As an additional, not-to-be-missed attraction, the festival will feature the grand arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam Engine. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to experience the working of the Summerville Turntable at 1 PM, a truly magnificent sight that organizers say “transports you back in time.”

For those interested in becoming a part of this incredible event as a vendor, inquiries can be directed via email to slocklear@summervillega.org for more information.

The City of Summerville and Summerville Main Street invite everyone to mark their calendars for October 11th, 2025, and prepare for an unforgettable experience that blends history, fantasy, and community spirit in the heart of Summerville.

The Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living (NW Ga. CIL) has introduced a new program called “Pathways to Partnerships” (P2P) aimed at helping students with disabilities develop skills for life after high school. This program is funded for five years through a grant from the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA). The main goal of P2P is to teach participants necessary skills to find jobs and gain independence.

The initiative is tailored to each student’s goals, helping them with job training or life skills. The program includes lessons on self-advocacy, communication, and personal interests related to future plans.

Currently, P2P is in action at the Roosevelt Warm Springs Center in Cave Spring and certain middle schools in Polk County, with plans to expand to the Bob Richards Youth Detention Center in Rome. Christina Holtzclaw, the Executive Director of NW Ga. CIL, hopes to extend the program across all 18 counties served by the center, which includes Chattooga County, and is focused on getting the program set up for those interested.

Holtzclaw has a personal connection to the program, having faced challenges in public schools as a child with a disability. She believes in the program’s importance for students seeking guidance. P2P is among several free services provided by NW Ga. CIL, which include advocacy, peer support, and skills training, all encouraging independent living for individuals with disabilities.

For more information about the Pathways to Partnerships program, visit nwga-cil.org.

Outdoor burning is once again permitted in Chattooga County as of yesterday, Wednesday, October 1, 2025, following the lifting of the summer burn ban. While the official restriction has ended, local fire officials are strongly cautioning residents to exercise extreme care, as conditions remain exceptionally dry despite the change.

While many residents are eager to clear natural debris, they should use caution right now. The ground is still very parched, and what might seem like a small, controlled burn can quickly get out of hand in these conditions.

Important Burning Rules to Follow

Residents planning to burn natural vegetation such as leaves and limbs must adhere strictly to established regulations to prevent uncontrolled fires and ensure public safety:

• Burn Hours: Burning is only allowed between sunrise and sunset. All fires must be completely extinguished by dark.
• Safe Distances: Fires must be maintained at safe distances: at least 25 feet from any woodlands and 50 feet from any structures.
• Constant Supervision: A responsible person must be on-site at all times, monitoring the fire until it is fully out and cold.
• Water Source Required: A continuous water source, such as a garden hose, must be readily available to manage the fire instantly.
• Piling Restrictions: Only hand-piled natural debris is permitted without special notification. For larger, machine-piled burns, residents are required to contact the Georgia Forestry Commission for specific guidelines and permits.

How to Check for Safety Before You Burn

Even with the statewide ban lifted, personal responsibility and situational awareness are paramount. Before igniting any burn pile, it is highly recommended to take these steps:

Check Fire Danger Rating: Consult the Georgia Forestry Commission’s daily fire weather forecasts to assess the local fire danger rating. This will provide crucial information on current risk levels.
Follow Local Guidance: Be aware that local officials retain the authority to implement temporary, localized burn bans if conditions become too hazardous. Always check for local advisories.

Illegal Materials to Burn

It is crucial to remember that certain materials are never legal to burn in Georgia, regardless of a statewide or local ban. Burning these items is not only unlawful but also releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Prohibited items include:

• Household garbage
• Plastics
• Tires
• Construction debris and treated lumber

By adhering to these guidelines and exercising sound judgment, Chattooga County residents can help ensure a safe fall season for everyone and minimize the risk of dangerous wildfires.

The Walker County Health Department announced it will recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Day by hosting a special event offering free clinical breast exams and subsidized mammography screenings this month.

The preventive health event is scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the health department facility located at 603 E. Villanow St. in LaFayette.

The event aims to remove financial barriers to critical preventive care, a measure crucial in a county that recorded 55 deaths due to breast cancer between 2020 and 2024. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women, and early detection significantly increases survival rates.

Appointments Required for Mammograms

The health department will provide free clinical breast exams in-house. While appointments are recommended, walk-ins will be accepted for these exams.

For specialized imaging, the CHI Memorial mobile mammography bus will be on site to offer mammography screenings. However, these screenings are strictly by appointment only.

Danielle Acuff, health department nurse manager, urged the public to act quickly to secure a slot for the imaging procedure.

“There are limited appointment slots for mammography screening,” Acuff said. “So we encourage interested individuals to call the health department and make an appointment for this special medical procedure right away.”

Removing Financial Barriers to Health

The initiative is part of the department’s commitment to improving community health outcomes through accessibility.

“We’re committed to making preventive care accessible to everyone,” Acuff stated. “This event removes financial barriers and empowers women to take charge of their health. Our healthcare professionals will provide clinical breast exams in a supportive, private environment.”

In addition to the medical services, attendees will receive light refreshments, door prizes, and goody bags. Educational materials and resources on breast health and self-exams will also be available.

Women interested in receiving a clinical breast exam or scheduling a crucial mammography screening should call the Walker County Health Department at 706-638-5577 to make an appointment.

Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader recently extended a heartfelt “thank you” to local business owner Jim Aaron and his Summerville and Lafayette McDonald’s franchises for a generous breakfast donation that helped kick off the Children’s Advocacy Center’s (CAC) annual “Be Their Voice” golf tournament fundraiser.

The tournament, hosted at the Lafayette golf course, relies on community support to raise crucial funds for the CAC of the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit. According to Sheriff Schrader, Jim Aaron, along with Amber, Crystal, Christy, and their dedicated staff, worked diligently to prepare 110 biscuits and fresh coffee for the morning golfers.

“Huge shoutout and ‘Thank you’ to Jim Aaron and his locally owned Summerville and Lafayette McDonald’s for providing breakfast,” Sheriff Schrader stated, acknowledging the significant effort involved. “Jim, Amber, Crystal, Christy, and their staff worked hard to get 110 biscuits and coffee ready for the morning golfers.”

The Children’s Advocacy Center of the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit plays a vital role in the community, providing much-needed resources and support to child crime victims and their families during incredibly challenging times. Beyond direct victim support, the CAC is also a crucial resource for law enforcement agencies, assisting in the investigation and prosecution of those who victimize children. Their work helps ensure that child victims have a voice and perpetrators are held accountable.

The “Be Their Voice” golf tournament is one of the key fundraising events that allows the CAC to continue these essential services. The support from local businesses like McDonald’s ensures that the event runs smoothly and efficiently, allowing more funds to directly benefit the center’s programs.

Community members interested in learning more about the Children’s Advocacy Center of the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit and how they can contribute to their mission of protecting and supporting child victims are encouraged to scan the QR code provided above. Organizations like the CAC depend on the generosity of the community to sustain their invaluable work.

In a significant victory for the Gullah Geechee community of Sapelo Island, the Georgia Supreme Court on Tuesday, unanimously ruled that residents have the right to pursue a referendum to repeal a controversial zoning change. This decision reverses a lower court’s ruling that had previously blocked the community’s efforts to hold a public vote, paving the way for residents to protect their historic homes and cultural heritage.

The dispute stems from an ordinance passed by McIntosh County commissioners in 2023, which significantly altered zoning regulations in Hogg Hummock, the last remaining Gullah Geechee community on Sapelo Island. The ordinance allowed the maximum size of single-family homes to more than double, sparking fears among residents that the change would lead to an influx of new, large vacation homes. This, in turn, threatened to drive up property taxes and accelerate the displacement of Gullah Geechee descendants from their ancestral lands.

In response, local Gullah Geechee residents and their supporters successfully petitioned for a referendum to repeal the new zoning ordinance, exercising what they believed was their fundamental right to self-governance. However, the McIntosh County Commission challenged this move, filing a lawsuit to halt the vote. A lower court initially sided with the county, ruling that zoning ordinances were not subject to referendum under the state’s “Home Rule” provisions.

Tuesday, Georgia’s highest court decisively overturned that lower court decision. In its unanimous ruling, the Supreme Court found that the lower court erred and that “nothing in the state constitution restricts a county electorate’s authority to seek the repeal of a zoning ordinance.” This landmark decision affirms the power of local communities to have a direct say in matters that profoundly impact their way of life.

The impact of this ruling is immediate and far-reaching. It effectively puts the contested zoning change on hold until the referendum can be held, giving residents a crucial path to restore the previous size limits and protect the unique historic character of Hogg Hummock.

The Gullah Geechee people are descendants of West and Central Africans who were enslaved and brought to the coastal regions of North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Due to their forced isolation on barrier islands and coastal areas like Sapelo, they developed a unique culture, preserving many of their African traditions in their language (Gullah), art, spiritual practices, and foodways. This rich cultural heritage is recognized and protected by the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor, established by the U.S. Congress in 2006.

Advocates say this ruling sets an important precedent for other vulnerable communities in Georgia and beyond, reinforcing the principle that local populations have fundamental rights to participate in decisions affecting their land and legacy. The date for the referendum has yet to be announced, but the community is ready to mobilize to secure their future.

Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia residents can expect another day of summer-like warmth this Wednesday before a welcomed shift ushers in cooler temperatures beginning Thursday. However, the forecast gives way to a degree of uncertainty for the upcoming weekend, with weather models currently at odds regarding the potential for significant rain.

Today, Wednesday, October 1st, will be dry and pleasant, characterized by mostly clear skies. An upper-level ridge from the Midwest, combined with expanding surface high pressure along the US East Coast, will drive out any lingering moisture. High temperatures are set to take advantage of the clearer conditions and persistent warm airmass, reaching the low to mid-80s across the region. Light northeast winds will prevail. Tonight, skies will be mostly clear with lows around 60 degrees.

More comfortable weather arrives on Thursday, bringing a noticeable drop in humidity. Dewpoints are forecast to plummet to the low 50s, creating a much more comfortable and refreshing feel that many have been clamoring for. High temperatures will return to normal for this time of year, settling into the mid to upper 70s for most of Northwest Georgia. Higher elevations in North Georgia can expect even cooler highs, ranging from the upper 60s to low 70s.

This pleasant pattern is set to continue through Saturday. Broad high pressure will ensure dry, mostly sunny conditions, with no threat of afternoon thunderstorms to disrupt outdoor plans. Overnight lows will dip into the comfortable upper 50s and low 60s, perfect for enjoying the cooler air.

The forecast becomes less certain as Sunday approaches, with weather models currently presenting differing scenarios regarding a potential moisture return. The general consensus suggests that a tropical wave of some kind will bring increased moisture to parts of Northwest Georgia.

Conflicting models leave uncertainty about the chance for rain this weekend. Due to this uncertainty, current chances of precipitation towards the end of the forecast period remain capped, with updates expected as the weekend draws closer.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, October 1, 2025:

As projections indicate that 72% of all jobs in Georgia will require education beyond a high school diploma by 2031, state leaders are urgently addressing the escalating costs of higher education, which many fear are locking out the next generation of skilled workers.

This challenge is the focus of the recently formed Senate Study Committee on Higher Education Affordability, chaired by State Senator Nan Orrock (D-Atlanta), who detailed the committee’s findings and goals in a discussion with Georgia Public Broadcasting’s Lawmakers Huddle.

Currently, only about 51% of young adults in Georgia have completed some form of post-secondary education, creating a significant gap between the state’s workforce requirements and the available talent pool.

The “Sticker Shock” Barrier

Senator Orrock, the chief sponsor of the resolution creating the committee, explained that she was initially prompted by college counselors reporting a specific demographic crisis: students who are academically admissible but financially unable to attend college.

“There’s a huge demographic of students who want to go on and seek higher education, but it’s not affordable for them,” Sen. Orrock said. “They may not qualify for the HOPE scholarship—which is for the kids with the highest grades—but they’re absolutely eligible and admissible to go to college.”

These students, often referred to as the “missing middle,” cannot rely on their families to pay the high costs associated with tuition, room, board, and books.

“The sticker price there is a shock,” Orrock noted, emphasizing that even some students who qualify for HOPE still require further assistance to bridge the affordability gap.

A Shifting Financial Burden

A major factor contributing to the affordability crisis is the dramatic shift in how higher education is funded in Georgia. Historically, the state carried the majority of the financial burden, a model that has since eroded.

“The numbers that we used to make was that the state put in 75% and the student’s tuition paid 25% of the cost of education,” Orrock explained. “The state’s share now has gone down to 54%, so do the math. The student share is up way above 40%.”

This increase in student responsibility places Georgia among only two states—along with New Hampshire—that do not offer universal need-based tuition grant programs to meet students’ financial requirements.

The Debt Nightmare

Beyond the initial sticker price, the committee is also investigating the crushing burden of student loan debt. Georgia currently ranks as having the third-highest graduate and undergraduate loan debt in the nation.

While some of this debt is carried by individuals who moved to Georgia for jobs after attending college elsewhere, the sheer volume of loan debt remains a critical concern, particularly because of the role of private lenders.

Sen. Orrock highlighted the “misery that flows” from having these private lenders acting as a “middleman,” stretching out payments indefinitely.

She shared a “heartbreaking story” heard by the committee from a woman in Milledgeville who had been diligently paying her loan for 10 years and was now in her final payment year. Despite paying the equivalent of her original debt, the woman still owes the initial amount due to interest and complicated payment structures.

“She is just flabbergasted that this loan has not been paid off,” Orrock stated. “And they’re saying now, ‘No, you need to reconsolidate and renegotiate this loan.'”

The study committee aims to use these findings to formulate legislative solutions that address both the upfront costs of college and the predatory practices contributing to long-term student debt, ensuring that Georgia can educate the workforce necessary to meet its 2031 job requirements.

GPB contributed to this report

Two individuals died Tuesday in a fatal hang-gliding accident shortly after launching from Lookout Mountain, according to the Tri-State Mutual Aid Association.

The tragic incident unfolded when Dade County E911 received a distress call reporting the crash, prompting the dispatch of West Brow Fire and Rescue to the scene.

Upon arrival, the challenging terrain necessitated a request for additional assistance from Dade County Mountain Rescue’s high-angle team. Due to limited manpower, mutual aid was quickly extended to Georgia Task Force 6’s rope team from Catoosa County. Rescuers rappelled down the steep mountainside, while other teams gained access to the difficult site via a private roadway.

First responders tragically confirmed that both individuals aboard the tandem hang-glider had succumbed to traumatic injuries. The extensive operation then transitioned from a rescue effort to a recovery mission, following the completion of work by the Dade County Coroner’s Office.

The recovery effort, further complicated by the rugged topography, received crucial air support from Georgia Aviation, with additional assistance provided by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

The identities of the victims have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.

Georgia’s healthcare sector and broader economy are bracing for a massive financial hit, potentially in the billions, if enhanced federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans are allowed to expire. A new analysis from the Urban Institute projects that Georgia’s healthcare providers alone stand to lose a staggering $3.7 billion in revenue by 2026, marking one of the largest projected losses in the nation.

The looming expiration of these subsidies, which significantly reduce monthly insurance premiums for millions nationwide, poses a unique and severe threat to Georgia due to its policy landscape and high reliance on federal assistance for health coverage.

How Georgia Stands to Lose Billions:

The financial consequences for Georgia are multifaceted and far-reaching:

Increased Uncompensated Care Costs: When hundreds of thousands of Georgians inevitably lose their health coverage due to unaffordable premiums, they won’t stop needing medical care. Hospitals and other providers will be forced to absorb the cost of this care, known as uncompensated care, which is expected to surge dramatically.

Reduced Health Spending: The loss of federal subsidies is projected to cause overall health spending on non-elderly Georgians to drop by 4.8%. This significant contraction in spending will strain the budgets of healthcare providers across the state.

Shrinking State Reinsurance Funds: Georgia operates a state-run reinsurance program, partially funded by federal “pass-through” money, which helps lower premiums by covering a portion of expensive claims. If enhanced federal subsidies end, this crucial federal funding will likely decrease, requiring the state to allocate more of its own money to maintain the program or risk seeing premiums climb even higher.

Strain on Hospitals, Especially Rural Ones: Many rural hospitals in Georgia are already operating on extremely thin margins. A rise in uninsured patients and the corresponding increase in uncompensated care could push these vulnerable institutions past their breaking point, potentially forcing closures or severe service cuts. Such closures would not only limit access to care but also have devastating ripple effects on employment and local economies in those communities.

Decreased State and Local Tax Revenue: A previous analysis estimated that repealing the ACA would result in Georgia losing over $1 billion in state and local tax revenue, and that the state’s gross product would decline. The expiration of subsidies and the resulting economic contraction are expected to similarly reduce tax income, further straining state and local budgets.

Georgia’s Unique Vulnerability:

Several factors exacerbate Georgia’s financial exposure to the expiration of these subsidies:

No Medicaid Expansion: Georgia remains one of the states that has not fully expanded its Medicaid program. This means that if ACA marketplace coverage becomes unaffordable, hundreds of thousands of low-income Georgians – who earn too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid but too little to afford private insurance without robust subsidies – will have no affordable alternative for health coverage. This creates a significant “coverage gap” that leaves many uninsured.

High Reliance on Subsidies: A vast majority of the 1.5 million Georgians currently enrolled in the state’s ACA marketplace, known as Georgia Access, rely heavily on the enhanced premium tax credits to afford their health insurance. The state’s recent success in boosting enrollment and reducing its uninsured rate is largely dependent on this critical federal financial assistance.

Significant Premium Increases: Without the enhanced subsidies, premiums in Georgia are projected to rise by an average of a staggering 75% for many marketplace enrollees. These steep increases are expected to price hundreds of thousands of people out of the market, leading to a substantial increase in the state’s uninsured population.

With the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies looming, Georgia faces a critical juncture. The decisions made regarding these federal payments will have profound and lasting impacts on the health, financial well-being, and economic stability of the state and its residents.

Sources: Georgia Budget & Policy Institute, Georgia Recorder, AJC

A crash report filed by authorities in Cherokee County, Alabama details the reckless driving and subsequent collision that killed two adults and injured seven children in August at the Indian Mountain ATV Park.

The report places substantial blame for the tragic incident on the driver, Marcus Ragland, 34, of Rome, Georgia, concluding that speed and driving on the wrong side of the trail were the direct causes of the accident. Ragland died at the scene. His passenger, Ashley Hawkins, 31, also of Rome, was critically injured and later pronounced dead at UAB Hospital in Birmingham.

The crash occurred while all nine individuals were riding in a single 2019 Polaris Razor ATV.

According to the crash details, Ragland was driving the vehicle at a high rate of speed—estimated conservatively at least 45 miles per hour—while traveling on the wrong side of a trail designated for two-way traffic.

Investigators determined that as Ragland approached another ATV, the driver of the oncoming vehicle attempted to swerve out of the way to avoid a collision. Ragland’s Razor struck the front passenger-side tire of the other ATV, causing his vehicle to flip violently before crashing into a nearby tree.

The report states that Ragland was immediately thrown from the vehicle and killed. Hawkins and all seven children riding in the ATV suffered various injuries in the rollover.

Alcohol and Drugs Found at the Scene

In the chaotic aftermath of the crash, investigators noted potentially compounding factors related to substance use.

Witnesses at the park reported to deputies that before law enforcement arrived, other individuals rushed to the scene and removed a cooler containing alcohol, allegedly stating they did so because they “could get in trouble.”

Furthermore, the initial report noted that investigators smelled marijuana near the crash site, though it was too dark to locate any during the initial processing. Owners of the ATV park later located marijuana near the wreckage and reported the discovery to authorities.

Subsequent investigation led to the discovery of a bag containing suspected fentanyl pills found inside the driver’s side door of Hawkins’ personal vehicle, which was parked at the park.

Injured Children Transported

The seven children involved in the crash, whose ages have not been released, were all injured.

Four of the children were transported by air to Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center in Rome, Georgia. They were reportedly treated for their injuries and released shortly after arrival.

The remaining three children sustained more serious injuries and were flown to a hospital in Birmingham. There is currently no update on their conditions.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office has not released further details regarding potential charges related to the drug findings, as the crash investigation focuses primarily on determining the cause of the fatal collision.

The Trion Recreation Department announced this week that basketball sign-ups for the upcoming season will officially begin on Saturday, October 4, 2025. This year, the department is excited to expand its offerings by introducing a new division specifically for 5 and 6-year-olds, welcoming younger athletes to the court.

“Basketball is finally here!” the department stated in its announcement, urging the community to act quickly. “We will begin signups this Saturday, October 4th. We will be offering 5 & 6 year old’s this year! November 1st is deadline! Be sure to come see us and sign up! Don’t wait!”

Prospective players and their families have until November 1, 2025, to register, but early sign-up is strongly encouraged to ensure a spot.

The Trion Recreation Department is dedicated to providing a variety of sports activities for local children, along with recreational facilities for the entire community. Their mission emphasizes building character and helping each individual learn valuable life and sports skills. “Our goal is to watch kids, not only grow in the sport they love, but grow into young mature adults and take what they have been taught to the next level,” the department added.

To sign up, families should visit the Trion Recreation Department in person. The facility is conveniently located at 90 Dalton St., Trion, GA, 30753.

The department operates six days a week to accommodate sign-ups and other community needs. Hours are Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with adjusted hours on Wednesday and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The department is closed on Sundays.

For further information or inquiries, please contact the Trion Recreation Department at (706) 734-2011.

Chattooga County’s housing market presented a mixed picture in August 2025, with home sales experiencing a notable decline while median prices continued their upward trajectory. According to recent data from Redfin, the county saw fewer transactions compared to the previous year, even as property values appreciated.

In August 2025, a total of 12 homes were sold in Chattooga County. This represents a 25% decrease from the 16 homes sold during the same month in 2024, signaling a cooling in buyer activity.

Despite the slowdown in sales volume, home prices in the area remained robust. The median home price in Chattooga County reached $185,000 in August 2025. This marks a significant 6.3% increase compared to the median price recorded in August of the previous year, suggesting that demand for available properties or limited inventory continues to push values higher.

The pace of the market also showed an adjustment. Homes in Chattooga County spent an average of 54 days on the market before selling in August 2025. While this indicates a relatively quick turnaround for properties, it also hints at a slightly longer sales cycle compared to what might have been seen in prior, more frenzied periods.

These local trends in Chattooga County largely mirror the broader housing market dynamics across Georgia. Statewide, the number of homes sold declined by 4.8% in August 2025 compared to the previous year, indicating a widespread decrease in transactional volume. Similarly, the market pace across Georgia slowed, with the median number of days a home spent on the market increasing to 58 days, highlighting a generally slower selling environment.

The blend of fewer sales and higher prices in Chattooga County suggests an evolving market. Potential factors influencing these trends could include fluctuating interest rates, continued affordability challenges for some buyers, or a persistent lack of readily available inventory. As the year progresses, real estate observers will be closely watching to see if the market finds a new equilibrium between buyer demand and seller expectations.

Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen served as the distinguished Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club meeting on September 25th, providing an in-depth educational presentation on two crucial sales tax referendums slated for the November 4th ballot. Commissioner Allen’s address aimed to inform local voters about the potential impacts of the Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST) and the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) on local services and finances.

Commissioner Allen underscored the importance of an informed electorate, encouraging attendees to understand the specifics of each proposal before heading to the polls. Both referendums, if approved, would introduce a one-cent sales tax taking effect on January 1, 2026, offering distinct benefits to the county and its municipalities.

First, Commissioner Allen explained the Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST). This one-cent sales tax, if approved by the voters, is primarily designed to provide significant property tax relief. The revenue generated by FLOST would be used to reduce or potentially eliminate the property tax millage rate currently allocated for the operational expenses of Chattooga County and its cities. These funds would support essential public services such as public safety, courts, general road maintenance, parks, and other vital government functions. The tax, which would partially be paid by visitors and travelers to the county, is proposed to take effect on January 1, 2026, for a period of five years. Funds would be distributed between the county and its cities based upon an intergovernmental agreement (IGA).

Next, the Commissioner detailed the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST). This second one-cent sales tax aims to create an additional, dedicated income stream for the community, reducing the county’s dependence on traditional revenue sources like property taxes for transportation needs. TSPLOST funds are specifically earmarked for improving the condition of roads and bridges throughout the county and enhancing the repaving cycle. Unlike FLOST, these funds are strictly dedicated to long-term transportation projects approved by the voters. The TSPLOST would also commence on January 1, 2026, if passed, and would remain in effect for six years, with its revenue generated from everyone purchasing goods and some services within the county.

Commissioner Allen emphasized that both referendums represent significant financial decisions for Chattooga County, with the potential to reshape how public services are funded and how infrastructure is maintained. He encouraged all eligible citizens to become fully informed on the specifics of each proposal and to exercise their right to vote on November 4th.

With the annual burn ban now lifted in Northwest Georgia, residents are now permitted to engage in outdoor burning activities, local fire officials are urging extreme caution, emphasizing that local conditions remain critically dry and highly susceptible to wildfires.

“With the ban lifted, the Summerville Fire Department reminds everyone that conditions are still very DRY!” the department stated in a recent release. “We need your continued caution to prevent wildfires and protect our homes and natural areas.”

The SFD stressed that despite the change in restrictions, the risk of a small fire quickly escalating into a dangerous wildfire remains high due due to arid conditions. Residents are implored to adhere to a comprehensive set of safety guidelines to mitigate this risk.

General Fire Safety Guidelines:

• Never Leave Unattended: All fires, regardless of size or purpose, must be constantly supervised by an adult until they are completely extinguished and cold to the touch.
• Water Source Ready: Always have a reliable water source, such as a charged garden hose or a large bucket of water, along with hand tools like a shovel or rake, immediately accessible.
• Dispose of Smoking Materials Carefully: Exercise extra vigilance when discarding cigarettes, cigars, or other smoking materials. Use approved disposal canisters or deep ashtrays, and never toss them onto the ground, into dry vegetation, or out of a vehicle window.
• Check Local Ordinances: Before lighting any open burn, always contact the Summerville Fire Department or your local municipal office to confirm specific local ordinances or permit requirements that may still be in place.

Outdoor Burning (Yard Debris, Brush, etc.) Specifics:

• Weather Watch: NEVER burn on dry, windy days. Wind speeds above 10-15 mph can quickly spread embers and turn a small fire into a wildfire. Always check the weather forecast.
• Clear the Area: Establish a wide fire break, at least a 10-foot radius, around any burn pile. This area should be cleared down to bare mineral soil and kept free from power lines, trees, and structures.
• Stay Attended: An adult must constantly attend the fire until it is “DEAD OUT” – cold to the touch. This means no leaving the fire, even for a moment.

Grills, Campfires, and Smoking Safety:

• Grill Placement: Position grills (charcoal and gas) at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, and any overhanging branches.
• Ash Disposal: For charcoal grills or campfires, allow ashes to cool for several days. Then, scoop them into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid, thoroughly soak them with water, and place the container outside on a non-combustible surface, away from any structures. Never dispose of ashes directly into a trash can.
• Campfires/Fire Pits: Use only designated fire pits or approved containers. Keep them small, typically no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high.

“By following these specific steps, you are helping us protect our homes and natural areas. Thank you!” the department concluded.

The Summerville Fire Department reminds residents that collective responsibility and adherence to these guidelines are crucial in preventing devastating wildfires in the community.

The annual Mentone Fall Festival is set to fill the crisp mountain air with music, laughter, and artistic flair on Saturday, October 18, at the picturesque Moon Lake Campus. Headlining the musical performances will be Alabama’s own “ambassadors of music and mirth,” Three On A String, joined by acclaimed Mentone resident and songwriter Pierce Pettis.

Three On A String, renowned for their unique blend of songs, laughs, and signature style, are slated to grace the Shigley Amphitheater stage. Inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, these talented musicians have captivated audiences nationwide with their engaging performances, promising an afternoon of genuine entertainment for festival-goers.

Also confirmed to perform at the Shigley Amphitheater is Mentone’s own Pierce Pettis. A long-time resident, Pettis boasts a storied career in music, marked by numerous albums on Compass Records and extensive national tours. His songwriting prowess is legendary, with his compositions recorded by iconic artists like Joan Baez, Art Garfunkel, Susan Ashton, and Dar Williams. Notably, country superstar Garth Brooks scored a massive hit with Pettis’s beloved song, “You Move Me.”

Beyond the compelling musical lineup, the Mentone Fall Festival offers a rich tapestry of visual arts. More than 80 art vendors will showcase their talents, featuring everything from intricate pottery and vibrant paintings to captivating photography, unique fabric art, and a wide variety of other handmade treasures, providing ample opportunity for unique holiday shopping or a special find.

The Mentone Fall Festival not only draws thousands of visitors to the charming Moon Lake Campus but also serves a vital purpose: raising funds for the maintenance and restoration of the historic property. Once a beloved elementary school, the campus has been thoughtfully transformed into a vibrant hub for shops, galleries, a restaurant, and college classes, becoming a cornerstone of the community.

Businesses and corporations are encouraged to support this significant work by becoming sponsors of the festival. Event coordinator and artist Deedee Morrison emphasizes the broader impact, stating, “Together, we are creating something that will impact the cultural and economic future of our region for generations.”

Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 18, and join the Mentone community for a full day of exceptional music, unique art, and family-friendly fun, all while supporting a cherished local landmark.