Chattooga County Historical Society To Host Trivia-Filled Spring Meeting Tomorrow
The Chattooga County Historical Society is inviting the community to enjoy an afternoon of local history and fun tomorrow, Sunday, April 19.
The quarterly meeting will be held at 2 p.m. at the Summerville Depot and will feature a Chattooga County History Trivia Contest. Organizers say attendees will be divided into teams for a lively program designed to test local knowledge while also sharing interesting facts about the county.
Refreshments and prizes will be available, and the event is open to the public. Organizers say it is especially geared toward those who enjoy the historical photos and local history posts shared online.
Residents are encouraged to come out, take part, and enjoy a community event centered around Chattooga County’s rich history.
Chattooga County Health Fair Happening Today in Summerville
The Chattooga County Health Fair is happening today, offering residents a chance to take advantage of free health services and resources in one convenient location.
The event runs from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center on Middle School Road in Summerville. Organizers say the health fair focuses on promoting wellness, prevention, and connecting the community with local healthcare providers.
Attendees can receive a wide range of free health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and BMI checks, along with dental screenings, HIV testing, and cancer screenings. Hands-on CPR education, Narcan training, and even free food distribution will also be available.
Mammograms will be offered by appointment for eligible participants, and a number of healthcare organizations and community partners will be on hand to provide information and support.
Officials encourage residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia to stop by, take advantage of the free services, and learn more about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Ongoing Drought Persists Across Northwest Georgia Despite Rain Chances
Drought conditions continue to grip Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia, with little relief in sight even as rain moves into the forecast.
Forecasters say showers and a few thunderstorms are expected to develop late tonight into early Sunday as a cold front pushes through the region. However, rainfall totals are expected to remain light, with most areas receiving only a small amount — not nearly enough to significantly improve the ongoing drought.
The lack of meaningful rainfall over recent weeks has left vegetation extremely dry, increasing fire danger and raising concerns for farmers, outdoor conditions, and water resources across the area. Officials continue to urge caution with any outdoor burning, as fires can spread quickly under these conditions.
While temperatures will cool down behind the front, the overall pattern remains dry, and drought conditions are expected to persist into next week. Additional rain chances appear limited in the near term.
Residents are encouraged to conserve water when possible and stay aware of changing weather conditions as Northwest Georgia continues to deal with one of its driest stretches in recent months.
Four Georgia State Troopers Fired Following Misconduct Investigation
Four Georgia State Troopers have been terminated following an internal investigation into misconduct involving personal injury claims, according to the Georgia Department of Public Safety.
In a statement released by the agency, officials said the investigation began after information surfaced in January 2026 indicating that several troopers were filing personal injury claims tied to incidents stemming from vehicle pursuits.
The Department’s Office of Professional Standards conducted a review and found that the troopers had submitted numerous crash and incident reports to an attorney. That attorney then sought monetary settlements on their behalf from individuals involved in pursuits that had been initiated by the troopers.
Officials determined that the manner in which the claims were made violated department policy and ethical standards. As a result, all four troopers involved were dismissed.
The Georgia Department of Public Safety emphasized that the actions of those individuals do not reflect the agency as a whole, noting its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and maintaining public trust.
The investigation has concluded, and no additional details about the individuals involved have been released.
Veterans’ Trust In VA Hits Record High
Trust in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has reached an all-time high, according to new data released by the VA.
Officials say 82% of veterans who used VA services in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 reported they trust the agency to fulfill its commitment to them.
That trust spans a wide range of services, including health care, benefits, and memorial services.
Confidence is even higher when it comes specifically to medical care. The VA reports that 93.6% of veterans trust VA outpatient health care, another record-setting figure.
The VA says the numbers reflect ongoing efforts to improve communication and listen directly to veterans through feedback surveys and outreach.
The agency has gathered millions of responses over the years, using that feedback to improve access and quality of care. Recent survey results show:
- 77.3% of veterans said it was easy to get services
- 81.4% said they received the care they needed
- 79.5% said they felt valued during their interactions
The report also highlights the scale of services provided. In just the first quarter of 2026:
- More than 4.8 million veterans received care
- Over 29 million medical appointments were completed
- Hundreds of thousands of benefit claims and home loans were processed
VA leaders say the increase in trust shows progress in delivering better experiences for veterans nationwide, though they emphasize continued feedback will be key to further improvements.
Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach Record Highs In February
The Georgia Department of Labor says the state reached new all-time highs in both labor force and employment in February, even as the unemployment rate ticked up slightly and job totals declined for a second straight month.
According to the new report, Georgia’s labor force rose to 5,451,101, while employment climbed to 5,256,871. Both marks are new records for the state.
Georgia’s February unemployment rate came in at 3.6%, up slightly from 3.5% in January. Even with the increase, the state’s jobless rate remained 0.8 percentage point lower than the national rate. It was also 0.2 percentage point higher than Georgia’s rate one year ago.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the record numbers show more Georgians are working and participating in the economy than ever before.
The labor force increased by 5,458 over the month and by 39,493 over the past year. Employment rose by 3,940 in February and was up 28,888 compared to the same time last year.
At the same time, the number of unemployed Georgians increased by 1,518 in February to 194,230, and was up 10,605 over the year.
The report also showed total jobs in Georgia fell by 4,200 in February to 4,977,200. Over the past 12 months, jobs were down 5,800. After revisions to January data, the state has now posted job losses for two months in a row.
One bright spot came in the health care and social assistance sector, which reached an all-time high of 638,400 jobs in February.
The biggest monthly job gains came in health care and social assistance, information, durable goods manufacturing, management of companies and enterprises, and wholesale trade.
The largest monthly losses were seen in construction, transportation, warehousing and utilities, retail trade, accommodation and food services, and professional and technical services.
Over the past year, the sectors posting the strongest gains were health care and social assistance, local government, state government, arts, entertainment and recreation, and real estate and rental and leasing.
The biggest year-over-year job declines were reported in federal government, transportation, warehousing and utilities, retail trade, wholesale trade, and accommodation and food services.
There was also good news on unemployment claims. Initial claims dropped by 11,152 in February to 16,551, the lowest total since November 2025.
State labor officials say employers and job seekers can find more information through the Georgia Department of Labor’s online resources and Career Centers across the state.
Student Taken Into Custody After Alleged Online Threat Against Gaylesville School
A student is in custody after allegedly making online threats directed at Gaylesville School, prompting a rapid response from local and federal authorities.
Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver said the situation began earlier in the day when federal officials notified local dispatchers about a concerning social media post involving a possible threat. That alert led deputies and school resource officers to respond immediately and secure the campus as a precaution.
School officials placed Gaylesville School on temporary secure status while law enforcement investigated and worked to protect students and staff.
Authorities said the student was identified and taken into custody within about 30 minutes of the initial alert. The arrest was made without incident, and officials said no weapons were found during the investigation.
The student is now charged with first-degree terrorist threats. Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the school or the surrounding community.
In a statement, Sheriff Shaver praised the quick coordination between agencies and said law enforcement moved decisively as soon as the information was received. He also acknowledged the concern incidents like this can create for parents, students, and school employees.
Officials also thanked federal partners for quickly sharing the information, along with school administrators and staff for their cooperation during the response.
Because the suspect is a juvenile, no identifying information has been released. The investigation remains ongoing.
AdventHealth Redmond Opens New Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute
Community members across Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama will soon have access to expanded heart care through the new AdventHealth Redmond Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute.
AdventHealth Redmond team members, community leaders, and patients gathered Thursday, April 16 for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the new facility. The institute is set to begin seeing patients on Monday, April 20.
Hospital leaders say the new Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute was designed with patients in mind, bringing comprehensive and coordinated heart care together under one roof.
Isaac Sendros, president and CEO of AdventHealth Redmond, said residents of Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama have trusted the hospital with their heart care for more than 50 years and said the new facility will allow patients to receive streamlined, world-class care in a space created specifically for them.
Mike Thompson, president and CEO of AdventHealth’s Southeast Region, said the focus is not just on the building itself, but on the care teams and patients inside it, emphasizing the organization’s mission of service and healing.
Dr. Michael Ware, a cardiologist with AdventHealth Medical Group Cardiology at Rome, credited the long-term success of the cardiology program to its culture, partnership, and commitment to patient-centered care. He said the team’s approach is centered on treating every person with importance, following the Golden Rule, and working hard for patients and families.
Last year, AdventHealth Redmond marked 50 years of heart care in the region. Officials say what began in 1975 with the area’s first cardiac catheterization lab has grown into decades of advanced care and service for local communities.
The new 40,000-square-foot facility brings together diagnostic testing, cardiac rehabilitation, cardiothoracic surgery, and heart failure care to create a more seamless experience for patients.
Hospital leaders say the new institute is an important step toward addressing heart health challenges across Northwest Georgia while continuing to expand access to specialized care close to home.
State Wildlife Officials Urge Georgians to Prevent Canada Goose Problems Before They Start
With nesting season now underway, state wildlife officials are encouraging homeowners, landowners, and property managers to take steps now to prevent conflicts with Canada geese before they become bigger problems later in the year.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division says Canada geese are increasingly common in developed areas, including neighborhood ponds, business parks, golf courses, subdivisions, and city green spaces. While the birds are often tolerated, officials say their behavior can become more aggressive during nesting season as they begin defending nests and nearby territory.
Wildlife biologist Kara Nitschke says geese usually will not bother people if left alone, but that can change quickly once nesting begins. She says the birds may see people as threats and respond by trying to protect the area around their nests.
Officials say now is the best time to act, especially for property owners who have dealt with goose problems in the past. During this part of the year, geese are still deciding where to settle, making it easier to discourage them from nesting in places where they may later create issues.
The state recommends starting with harassment techniques, including reflective tape, scarecrows, predator decoys, motion-activated sprinklers, and loud noises. While those methods can help, officials say they require consistency and may not always work in every situation.
State and federal officials also remind residents that Canada geese are protected under the law. That means it is illegal to hunt, kill, sell, purchase, or possess them except as allowed under migratory bird regulations or with the proper permits.
For longer-term control, officials say certain federal permits are available to reduce goose reproduction through nest removal or egg treatment methods designed to keep eggs from hatching. Wildlife officials say those tools can help prevent goose populations from growing too large in areas where repeated conflicts have occurred.
More information about Canada geese and preventing wildlife conflicts is available through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Pipe Burst Forces Closure of Walker County Government Building in Rock Spring
A Walker County government building in Rock Spring is closed today following significant water damage caused by a pipe burst overnight.
Officials say the Local Government Services building, located at 122 Highway 95, experienced flooding that impacted several offices and public areas.
The closure affects multiple departments housed in the building, including the tag and tax office, assessor’s office, planning and zoning, and code enforcement.
Residents needing services are advised that the Walker County Tax Commissioner’s office in Rossville remains open.
There is no word yet on when the Rock Spring facility will reopen as crews work to assess and address the damage.
Arrest Report - Friday - April 17, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, April 17, 2026:
Dangerous Fire Conditions As Hot Dry Weather Continues
Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia are once again under heightened fire weather concerns as dangerously dry conditions and unusually hot temperatures continue through Saturday.
Forecasters say a Fire Danger Statement remains in effect across parts of north and central Georgia, with low humidity, dry vegetation, and warm temperatures combining to create a greater risk for fires to spread quickly. Residents across Chattooga County and surrounding Northwest Georgia communities are urged to avoid outdoor burning and to use extreme caution with anything that could spark a flame.
Temperatures are expected to climb well above normal again Friday and Saturday, with highs reaching the upper 80s to low 90s. Some daily record highs could be challenged, and the unusual April heat is only making already dry ground conditions worse.
Relief may arrive late Saturday into Sunday as a cold front moves into the region, bringing a chance for showers and a few thunderstorms. While some rain is expected across North Georgia, forecast totals remain light, with most areas expected to receive little more than a quarter-inch of rain. That is not expected to significantly improve ongoing drought conditions.
A few stronger showers or storms with gusty winds cannot be ruled out in parts of North Georgia, but widespread severe weather is not currently expected. After the front passes, much cooler air will move in for Sunday and early next week, with morning lows dropping into the 40s and even upper 30s in some spots.
Even with the cooler temperatures, the dry pattern is expected to continue, and fire weather concerns may remain in place into early next week as humidity levels drop again.
Residents in Chattooga County and across Northwest Georgia should stay alert for additional fire weather statements and use caution with any outdoor flames, equipment, or activities that could ignite dry grass and brush.
Berry Farms Farmers Market Returns April 18 In Rome
The Berry Farms Farmers Market is set to return this Saturday, April 18, offering a wide selection of locally grown and handcrafted goods in Rome.
The market, a student-run enterprise from Berry College, will be held from 9 AM until 12 PM at the Westcott parking lot on the Berry College campus.
Shoppers can expect a variety of fresh and locally sourced items, including Angus beef, herbs, potted plants, artisan cheeses, honey, and beeswax products, along with handcrafted goods produced by students and local vendors.
The market highlights products from Berry’s Season’s Harvest program and other student-led enterprises, giving visitors a chance to support both local agriculture and student entrepreneurship.
Organizers say the event is a great opportunity for the community to explore fresh products while supporting Berry College students and their hands-on learning experiences.
Trion High School Seeking Bookkeeper
Trion High School is currently accepting applications for a bookkeeper position, according to a newly released job posting.
The position reports directly to the principal or assistant principal and involves maintaining accurate financial records and preparing monthly reports for the school system.
Duties include reconciling accounts payable with bank statements, verifying balances, managing deposits, and completing bank statements. The selected candidate will also be responsible for various financial functions tied to school operations.
Applicants should be comfortable using office equipment and computer programs such as Excel, Quicken, and Microsoft Word, and must be able to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions.
The minimum education requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent, though additional education is preferred. Experience in bookkeeping or accounting practices is required, along with proficiency in common financial software.
Officials say strong communication, computer, and interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to learn new systems as needed.
The position follows an 11-month work schedule (220 days per year).
Additional duties may be assigned as part of the role.
To apply, submit a resume and a letter of interest to Bryan Edge at bryan.edge@trionschools.org
Application deadline: End of business day 4/30/2026
Teen Arrested After Alleged Threat Incident In Summerville
A Summerville teenager is facing charges following an incident involving alleged threats and inappropriate behavior reported earlier this week.
According to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Jabari Carter, 17, was arrested after deputies were called to a residence on Kay Drive in Summerville.
The complainant told dispatchers that Carter had made inappropriate comments toward her juvenile daughter and later returned to the home, where he allegedly made threats.
When deputies arrived, they spoke with the complainant, who said Carter had been interacting with her daughters and made remarks that made them uncomfortable. She also stated that after being confronted, he became upset and later returned, allegedly threatening to harm her.
Deputies then made contact with Carter at a nearby residence. According to the report, he denied making threats or engaging in inappropriate contact, stating that he had been involved in an argument and was leaving the area when tensions escalated.
While being escorted by deputies, Carter reportedly fell and struck his head. Emergency medical services responded, and he was transported for evaluation as a precaution.
Carter was taken into custody and charged with terroristic threats and acts. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing, including follow-up with witnesses and others involved.
Berry College’s First Day Of Giving Raises Nearly $500K
The Berry College community came together in a big way for its first-ever Day of Giving on April 8, rallying around the theme “We All Row!”
By the end of the day, 1,860 donors contributed an impressive $489,170, supporting scholarships, financial aid, academics, athletics, and overall student experience initiatives.
College leaders say the theme captured the spirit of the event.
“We All Row is a reminder that we’re all working together to move Berry forward,” said Vice President of Advancement Laura Croft. “We are tremendously grateful for the response of our Berry family far and wide.”
The day saw strong participation from alumni, students, faculty, staff, and supporters across 37 states and Washington, D.C. More than 250 students joined in giving, while social media helped spread the message far beyond campus.
Berry President Sandeep Mazumder called the event a powerful reflection of the college’s community.
“When this community comes together, there is no limit to what our students and Berry College can achieve,” he said in a message shared online.
The Day of Giving featured 46 different funds and included 39 matching challenges and incentives to encourage participation. On campus, more than 18 pop-up events helped build excitement, including gatherings with faculty and a large group photo that drew over 150 participants.
One of the top-performing initiatives was the new President’s Innovation Fund, which raised more than $73,000. The fund will support undergraduate research, faculty collaboration, and hands-on learning opportunities.
Organizers say donations will continue to be accepted through April 25 as momentum from the successful inaugural event continues to build.
Sonny Perdue Announces Retirement As Head Of Georgia University System
University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue has announced he will retire from his role leading the state’s public colleges and universities.
Perdue, a former Georgia governor and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, has served as chancellor since 2022, overseeing one of the largest higher education systems in the country, which includes 25 public colleges and universities and more than 380,000 students.
News of his retirement was confirmed this week, marking the end of his tenure as the state’s top higher education leader.
During his time as chancellor, Perdue focused on issues such as college affordability, workforce development, and aligning academic programs with Georgia’s economic needs. He also played a role in system-wide initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and expanding opportunities for students across the state.
Perdue has had a long career in public service, including two terms as Georgia’s governor from 2003 to 2011 and serving as the nation’s agriculture secretary from 2017 to 2021.
State leaders say his leadership helped guide Georgia’s higher education system through a period of growth and change.
The Board of Regents is expected to begin the process of selecting a new chancellor in the coming months.
No official retirement date has been publicly announced.
Chattooga High’s Bella Burdick Named FCA Christian Athlete Of The Year
Congratulations are in order for Izabella “Bella” Burdick, who has been selected as Chattooga High School’s FCA Christian Athlete of the Year for 2026.
School supporters say Burdick exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, serve others, and represent her school with pride.
The honor recognizes not only athletic achievement, but also character, leadership, and a positive example both on and off the field.
Those celebrating Burdick’s recognition say they are proud of all she has accomplished and look forward to seeing her continue to make a positive impact.
Chattooga Chamber To Host Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon In Summerville
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community to celebrate Administrative Professionals Day with a special luncheon honoring local office and support staff.
The event will take place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Hurley Community Development Center, located at 10050 Commerce Street in Summerville.
The luncheon will recognize the hard work and dedication of secretaries, administrative assistants, executive assistants, receptionists, client services representatives, and other administrative professionals who help keep businesses and organizations running smoothly.
As part of the event, the Chamber will present its Administrative Professional of the Year Award. Community members are encouraged to nominate outstanding administrative professionals and reserve a seat for them to attend.
Attendees will enjoy a catered lunch, a guest speaker, gifts, and door prizes during the celebration.
Reservations are required, and seating is limited to two per reservation.
For more information or to reserve a seat and submit a nomination, contact the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce.
Summerville City Offices To Close Early Friday
All City of Summerville administrative offices will close early on Friday, April 17, at 11:00 AM so staff can attend an Employee Appreciation Lunch.
City officials say the early closure is intended to recognize the hard work and dedication of city employees.
Normal office hours will resume on Monday, April 20.
Residents needing to make utility payments can still do so through the drop box, online portal, or automated phone system while offices are closed.
Officials also remind the public that in the event of an emergency, they should call 911.
The City of Summerville thanked residents for their understanding and support.