Halloween is today, and residents of Chattooga County are preparing for a spirited evening of trick-or-treating, with both the Town of Trion and the City of Menlo hosting major community activities tonight.

From designated walking routes to spooky fundraising mazes, attendees in both municipalities are reminded to prioritize safety and respect designated curfews while enjoying the holiday fun.

Trion Halloween Walk Back on Track for Tonight

The Town of Trion has confirmed that its annual Halloween Walk will be held this evening, after a brief period of schedule adjustments related to local sports.

Initially, the Trion Police Department had considered moving the Walk to Saturday, November 1, 2025 (sic), to prevent a conflict with a high school football game. However, with the football game moving to last night, the highly anticipated Halloween Walk is officially scheduled for tonight, October 31st.

The Trion event is set to conclude with a town-wide 9:00 PM curfew. Organizers stress that while the community is encouraged to participate fully, attendees must be thoughtful and respectful of residents in the vicinity who may not be participating in the festivities.

For the safety of all attendees, young and old, a vital reminder has been issued: participants must cross the street exclusively at the designated crosswalk located in front of the football field. This measure is being implemented to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for everyone involved in the route.

High School Maze Offers Extra Scares

Adding to the evening’s excitement, the Trion High School Boys Basketball team will be hosting their annual Halloween Maze tonight, serving as a fundraiser for the team.

The maze will run from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM tonight and will be open again on Saturday during the same hours. Entry to the spooky experience is $10, with all proceeds going directly to support the Trion Boys Basketball Program.

Menlo Hosts Walk at Lawrence Park

Meanwhile, the City of Menlo is also contributing to the night’s holiday atmosphere with its own community event.

The City of Menlo will be hosting a Halloween Walk at Lawrence Park off Edison Street in Menlo. The event is scheduled to take place earlier in the evening, running from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Chattooga County residents have their final opportunity to cast an advance ballot today, Friday, October 31st, as early voting concludes for the current election cycle. Voters wishing to participate before Election Day must do so by 5:00 PM this evening.

All advance voting takes place exclusively at the Chattooga County Registrars Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville. The office will be open from 8:30 AM until 5:00 PM.

With the closure of advance voting today, all focus will shift to Election Day next Tuesday, November 4th. Voters are reminded that on Election Day, polling will not be available at the Registrars Office. Instead, registered voters must report to their specific local voting precincts between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM to cast their ballots.

Voters across Chattooga County are making decisions on two important local sales tax initiatives. Additionally, the ballot includes the statewide Georgia Public Service Commission race, where voters will select candidates for two posts on the commission.

The deadline to request an Absentee by Mail Ballot for this election has already passed.

Residents in the cities of Lyerly, Menlo, Summerville, and Trion are also conducting their own municipal elections during this period. Voters in these cities seeking information on their specific municipal advance voting schedules or Election Day details are encouraged to contact their respective city halls directly.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make your voice heard. Plan your vote today or prepare to visit your local precinct next Tuesday.

A woman from Floyd County was tricked in an unusual extortion scheme where a scammer made her believe she needed to film herself taking a shower for a spiritual cleansing ritual. The police stated that the victim lost $1,500 after the scammer used her beliefs and then threatened to share the video.

The scam started with a video call where the scammer manipulated the victim psychologically by claiming she was afflicted by “witchcraft. ” To remove this curse, the scammer convinced her to participate in the ritual shower. Such scams often take advantage of people’s personal beliefs to gain trust and make them comply with strange requests.

Besides the ritual, the scammer spread false rumors about the victim’s husband cheating on her, leading to a conflict that caused him to leave. After the victim filmed the shower, the scammer switched tactics and threatened to release the video unless she paid money. Under this threat, the victim sent $1,500, which investigators traced to an international location in Colombia.

This case warns about the changing methods of fraudsters, particularly those involving sextortion and psychological tricks. Law enforcement urges the public to be cautious about video call scams and requests for money under pressure. The authorities recommend that anyone who feels they have been a victim should report this to local law enforcement and stop all communication with the scammers.

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS), in partnership with the National Weather Service (NWS), has announced Tuesday, November 5, as Georgia’s Severe Weather Preparedness Day. The initiative calls upon schools, businesses, and individuals across the state to participate in a statewide severe weather exercise and tornado drill around 9:30 a.m.

The annual preparedness day serves as a critical opportunity for Georgians to review and practice their severe weather safety plans, ensuring readiness for potential threats.

“Severe Weather Preparedness Day is a great opportunity for families, schools, and businesses to review their plans and make sure everyone knows what to do when a warning is issued,” said GEMA/HS Director Josh Lamb. “It’s also a reminder to stay weather-aware by having multiple ways to receive alerts, understanding the dangers of tornadoes and flash flooding, and knowing where to take shelter. Preparation and awareness save lives.”

The timing of this preparedness day is particularly relevant, as climatology data from the National Weather Service indicates that parts of Georgia experience a secondary peak in severe weather activity, including tornadoes, during the months of November and early December.

The statewide drill on November 5 will be activated by a special Routine Weekly Test issued through NOAA Weather Radio. All six National Weather Service Forecast Offices that cover Georgia will simultaneously broadcast this test across the state around 9:30 a.m., triggering schools and businesses to conduct their pre-planned severe weather exercises. Individuals and families are also strongly encouraged to take part by reviewing their own home emergency plans and practicing taking shelter.

Georgians are encouraged to utilize resources provided by GEMA/HS’s Ready Georgia campaign, which offers comprehensive information and tools to help residents be informed about potential threats. Citizens can develop a communications plan, create an emergency Ready kit, and learn more about staying safe during various weather events.

For businesses, the Ready Your Business guide provides resources to create custom contingency plans. Children can visit the ReadyKids page for age-appropriate information, videos, and games designed to teach them about severe weather safety. Additionally, local county emergency management agencies serve as valuable resources for information and tips to help families stay prepared.

By participating in Georgia’s Severe Weather Preparedness Day, residents can significantly enhance their safety and resilience in the face of unpredictable weather events.

Tracey Mercado, program director and instructor of Medical Assisting at Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC), has been named GNTC’s 2025 Alumna of the Year.

Mercado, who has served in her current role and as assistant dean of Nursing and Allied Health Technologies at GNTC since 2022, began her career at GNTC as a student, earning an associate degree in Medical Office Management and a diploma in Medical Assisting in 2011. She received her bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration in 2019 from Reinhardt University.

Mercado joined the faculty at GNTC in 2017 as an instructor of Medical Assisting.

“I want to personally express my sincere appreciation for Tracey’s outstanding contributions to our students, her colleagues, the college and the healthcare community,” said Dr. Heidi Popham, GNTC president. “Tracey is an inspirational, dedicated and compassionate leader, and GNTC is fortunate to count her as one of our graduates and a member of our team.”

This year marked the first time GNTC opened nominations to the general public. A five-member selection committee reviewed the nominations and evaluated the nominees’ professional achievements, community service, engagement with the college, overall influence and inspiration of others, Popham said.

Mercado exemplifies the spirit of excellence, dedication and leadership that defines the best of GNTC’s graduates, according to her nomination.

“She is not only an outstanding educator and leader, but also an advocate for student achievement and workforce readiness,” Mercado’s nominator explained. “Her story is a true testament to the power that technical education can provide for students.”

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, October 30, 2025:

Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are experiencing a notable transition in weather as the powerful cold front responsible for widespread rain earlier this week finally pulls away, leaving behind a brisk, breezy, and significantly cooler airmass.

While conditions are rapidly improving, forecasters emphasize that the effects of the departing system—specifically a reinforcing dip in the jet stream—will keep temperatures well below seasonal averages today and tonight.

Clearing Skies, Persistent Winds

The day marks the definitive end of the recent wet weather. Any lingering moisture will create only a slight chance of isolated, light showers through the early afternoon before skies begin their shift from mostly cloudy to partly cloudy.

The main weather story for the region today is the wind. Strong west winds are blowing 10 to 15 mph, featuring gusts that could reach up to 25 mph, particularly across higher terrain. These persistent winds are crucial, acting as a natural broom to push remaining cloud cover out of the region by nightfall.

Temperatures will struggle to rise, held down by the cool air mass ushered in by the jet stream dip. Highs are expected to hover in the mid-50s.

Overnight Chill Expected

As the evening progresses, skies will continue to clear, transitioning to partly cloudy overnight. The strong west winds will begin to decrease and shift slightly to the northwest.

With the heavy clouds gone, the cool air mass will settle, paving the way for a sharp drop in temperatures. Lows tonight across Chattooga County are forecast to sink into the upper 30s, necessitating warm attire for early Friday morning commuters.

Looking Ahead to the Weekend

The forecast trajectory is overwhelmingly positive for the weekend, though it remains notably cool.

Friday – Halloween – is expected to be sunny and bright, offering the best conditions of the week, with high temperatures creeping up closer to the 60-degree mark, settling near 61 degrees. Overnight Friday is expected to be mostly clear, with lows dropping back down around 36 degrees.

The weekend forecast remains dry:

The Region Championship trophy hangs in the balance this Thursday night as the undefeated Bowdon Red Devils (7–2, 3–0 Region) travel to Sam R. McCain Stadium to face the surging Trion Bulldogs (4–5, 2–1 Region). The high-stakes matchup marks the final regular-season game for both squads and will determine the ultimate victor of the region.

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. EDT on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

For the visiting Red Devils, the equation is simple: a victory secures the region title outright. For the home-standing Bulldogs, a win would not only provide sweet revenge for last year’s defeat but would also force a championship tie based on the head-to-head tiebreaker.

Bowdon Enters as Region Frontrunner

The Bowdon Red Devils have established themselves as the team to beat, storming through region play without a loss. Their recent performances have been explosive, highlighted by a massive 68–14 victory over Greenville last week.

The focal point of the Bowdon offense remains quarterback and catalyst, Joshua Hopkins. Hopkins has been a dynamic force, averaging a combined 217 yards per game through the air and on the ground. His ability to both run and pass has made the Red Devils’ attack virtually impossible to contain, as evidenced by his 214-yard, three-touchdown passing performance earlier this season.

Bowdon is also seeking to repeat history, having defeated Trion handily last season with a decisive 42–16 final score.

Bulldogs Seek Upset and Redemption

The Trion Bulldogs enter the contest with newfound momentum after battling their way to a crucial 26–20 overtime victory against Greenville October 17th. Despite their overall record, the Bulldogs’ 2–1 region standing keeps their championship hopes very much alive.

Trion’s offense relies on a potent mix led by sophomore running back Landon Kimbell, who exploded for 155 rushing yards in the team’s last outing. Complementing the ground game is quarterback Linc Allen, who accounts for a significant portion of the Bulldogs’ offense, averaging over 230 total yards per game.

If Trion can harness the energy of their home crowd at Sam R. McCain Stadium and control the line of scrimmage, they stand a strong chance of completing the upset and forcing a dramatic, multi-way tie for the region crown.

This final regular-season contest is not just about a region championship; it’s about establishing playoff seeding and settling a year-long score. With both teams fighting for regional supremacy, fans are anticipating a playoff-caliber atmosphere on Thursday night.

Game Details:

Matchup: Bowdon Red Devils vs. Trion Bulldogs Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025 Time: 7:00 p.m. EDT Location: Sam R. McCain Stadium, Trion High School, Trion, GA

Listen Live: Fans unable to attend can tune in this evening as Paul Cavin and Jeremy Burke bring the play-by-play action on WZQZ. The game will also be streaming live on the WZQZ Facebook page.

Summerville Main Street is extending an invitation to local families, individuals, and organizations to participate in a special “Salute To The Troops” exhibit on November 8th, designed to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation.

This unique, community-driven display will be hosted inside the historic Summerville Depot, coinciding with the highly anticipated last fall arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam Engine Passenger Train. The event aims to create a poignant and visible tribute to veterans, allowing their stories and sacrifices to be shared with a wide audience.

Families and individuals wishing to honor a veteran are encouraged to create personal exhibits. These displays can include a variety of meaningful items such as photographs, military awards, uniforms, written narratives detailing their service, and other personal mementos. The goal is to create a powerful and heartfelt collection of tributes that reflect the diverse experiences of local veterans.

The exhibit not only provides a special opportunity for honoring veterans but also enhances the atmosphere surrounding the popular steam engine train visit, drawing greater public attention to these important displays.

Interested parties, including families, individuals, or local organizations, are urged to contact Summerville Main Street to secure a spot in this meaningful exhibit. This is a chance for the community to come together and collectively express gratitude for the dedication and service of our veterans.

To participate or for more information, please contact Summerville Main Street directly:

Phone: 706-859-0900
Email: slocklear@summervillega.org or mcordle@summervillega.org

Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to a memorable salute to our troops and ensure their service is honored and remembered in Summerville.

A newly released AARP report, “Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States,” reveals that a staggering 24% of Georgia adults – approximately 2.5 million people – are family caregivers, providing largely unpaid and unsupported care to older parents, spouses, and other loved ones. The data highlights the immense financial, physical, and emotional toll these individuals face, prompting AARP Georgia to urge policymakers for immediate action.

“When a loved one needs help, family members, friends, and neighbors step up, that’s what we do,” said Vanessa J. Payne, State Director, AARP Georgia. “But too often, caregivers carry this responsibility alone, often putting their finances, health, and jobs at risk. As our state population ages, the demand for care will only grow. With the release of this new data and ahead of the 2026 legislative session, AARP Georgia urges policymakers at every level to act now to help family caregivers save money, time, and get the support they need.”

Georgia family caregivers contribute an astounding $16.3 billion in unpaid care each year, enabling their loved ones to live independently at home and within their communities—where they overwhelmingly prefer to be. Their responsibilities span a wide range of critical tasks, from bathing and meal preparation to managing complex medications, arranging transportation, and performing medical tasks, often with little to no formal training.

The report underscores the severe impact on family caregivers across multiple dimensions:

Financial Strain: 80% of caregivers pay out of their own pockets to help meet their loved ones’ needs, averaging $7,200 yearly or 25% of their income. In Georgia, 59% of family caregivers report significant financial setbacks, including taking on debt, draining savings, or struggling to afford basic necessities like food and medicine.
Workplace Conflict: Sixty-two percent of Georgia’s caregivers also juggle full- or part-time jobs. Many are forced to reduce work hours or leave the workforce entirely due to caregiving responsibilities, jeopardizing their long-term financial security and career trajectories.
Physical and Emotional Toll: The relentless demands of caregiving often lead to chronic stress, exhaustion, and declining health for the caregivers themselves.

AARP Georgia is actively fighting for commonsense solutions to alleviate these burdens, aiming to save caregivers money and time while providing greater support. On a federal level, AARP is advocating for the Credit for Caring Act, a proposed federal tax credit of up to $5,000 for working caregivers, and the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, which would expand flexible spending and health savings account uses to cover caregiving expenses.

This November, in recognition of National Family Caregivers Month, AARP Georgia encourages everyone to support caregivers and join the growing movement of Americans raising their voices for change. Individuals can join AARP’s “I Am A Caregiver” movement and tell lawmakers it’s time to support those who care.

To access free caregiver tools and local resource guides, visit:

AARP’s state-by-state Family Caregiver Resource Guides: Help family caregivers access key programs, services, and agencies in their community.
AARP’s online Caregiving Hub: Provides comprehensive tools and information in English and Spanish.
AARP and United Way Worldwide’s 211 program: Connects family caregivers to essential local services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline.
AARP’s official caregiving Facebook group: Serves as a place for family caregivers nationwide to connect, share practical tips, offer support, and discuss their shared experiences.
About AARP Georgia

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.

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A Summerville man reported to local police Monday that he had fallen victim to a sophisticated online scam, losing $3,000 in cash and sending an additional $15,000 in cashier’s checks under the false pretense of securing a government grant. The incident highlights the growing threat of social media-based financial fraud.

The victim told Summerville Police that the elaborate scheme began when he was contacted via Facebook by an individual posing as a cousin he hadn’t communicated with in some time. This imposter claimed to have recently received a substantial $150,000 Small Business Administration (SBA) grant through an “agent.”

The fake cousin then provided a link to a Facebook profile for an individual purporting to be “Agent Mary Smith,” who allegedly facilitated the grant. The Summerville man then began communicating directly with “Mary Smith” via Facebook Messenger.

Under instructions from “Mary Smith,” the victim first sent $3,000 in cash via UPS to an address in Wisconsin, purportedly for initial processing fees or taxes associated with the grant.

Following this, he sent three separate $5,000 cashier’s checks, totaling $15,000, to an address in Maryland, also allegedly for “taxes” on the promised $150,000 grant. However, “Mary Smith” subsequently claimed these checks were “not written correctly” and were “unusable.” The imposter then instructed the victim to report the original checks as stolen or destroyed and to send three more $5,000 cashier’s checks with the “correct payee.”

It was at this point that the victim grew suspicious. Upon contacting Regions Bank, where he obtained the cashier’s checks, he learned that the $15,000 in original checks were currently on hold with the Bank of Maryland. He was informed by Regions Bank that he expected to get that amount back, preventing further loss for those specific transactions. The $3,000 in cash sent via UPS, however, is likely unrecoverable.

The victim promptly reported the incident to the Summerville Police Department on Monday. He provided the reporting officer with access to his Facebook Messenger communications, and photos of the messages were taken as evidence. The case has been turned over to the department’s investigations division.

Authorities often warn the public about the prevalence of grant scams and online imposters. Legitimate government agencies do not typically contact individuals directly via social media to offer grants, nor do they request upfront payments in cash or cashier’s checks for “taxes” or “fees.” Citizens are advised to be highly skeptical of unsolicited offers that promise large sums of money in exchange for payments.

Georgia Highlands College will hold a groundbreaking ceremony next week for the renovation of the Lakeview Healthcare Education Center on the Floyd Campus in Rome.

The event, scheduled for November 6, will highlight GHC’s continued partnership with Atrium Health Floyd and recognize community leaders and legislators who have supported healthcare education in Northwest Georgia.

Speakers will include GHC President Mike Hobbs, Atrium Health Floyd President and CEO Kurt Stuenkel, State Representative Katie Dempsey, State Senator Chuck Hufstetler, as well as GHC healthcare program leaders and students.

The nearly $12 million renovation of the Lakeview Building—home to GHC’s high-performing Nursing and Dental Hygiene programs- was included in Governor Brian Kemp’s most recent slate of strategic investments to expand healthcare education across the state.

On October 21, 2025, a routine traffic stop for a missing tag in Chattooga County led to the arrest of 31-year-old Coty Allen Williamson, who had active felony warrants. The stop initiated when a deputy noticed a white Dodge pickup truck without a tag. After a brief pursuit, the truck was stopped at George’s Kwik Store in Summerville.

Upon approaching, the deputy identified the driver, Lindsay Wigley, who admitted to not having a tag. He then recognized Williamson, a known felon, as a passenger. When ordered to show his hands, Williamson reached towards his right side, prompting the deputy to prepare his taser for compliance. Williamson eventually complied, allowing the deputy to remove him from the vehicle and place him in handcuffs.

Additional deputies arrived to assist. Wigley consented to a search of the vehicle, which revealed a glass smoking device with a white crystal substance. Tests confirmed it contained both Methamphetamine and Fentanyl. The occupants were read their rights and agreed to speak with the officers. Williamson acknowledged ownership of the smoking device. A further search found a small bag with more crystal-like substances that also tested positive for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl, which Williamson claimed as his.

While handling evidence, the glass smoking device accidentally broke. Wigley received a citation for a busted taillight. Williamson was taken to Chattooga County Jail and faces charges including Felony Possession of Methamphetamine, Felony Possession of Schedule II Drugs (Fentanyl), and Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Related Objects.

On October 22, 2025, Tyler Blake Gamble, 32, was found guilty by a Dade County jury of Trafficking Fentanyl and Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute after a three-day trial. Evidence showed that Gamble, who was on parole for a previous drug conviction, was selling methamphetamine in Alabama on April 17, 2024. Following an investigation, officers searched his home and found 47 fentanyl tablets and over $6,000 in cash. Gamble admitted to regularly trafficking methamphetamine and planned to restock his supply. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed the fentanyl amount was significant under state law. Despite the defense’s claims of a weak case, the jury disagreed and convicted him. He was sentenced to 40 years, with 25 years to serve. The Lookout Mountain District Attorney’s office highlighted the community’s role in achieving justice.

Rome Police are investigating after the body of a 29-year-old woman was discovered Tuesday morning in downtown Rome, between the Cotton Block and Bridgepoint Plaza. Authorities have stated there is no evidence of foul play at this time, and the death does not appear suspicious.

According to Rome Police Public Information Officer Kelly Madden, officers and Rome-Floyd Fire/EMS personnel responded at approximately 8:20 a.m. on October 28, 2025, to a call regarding an unresponsive female. First responders located the 29-year-old woman behind a business near the 0 block of Broad Street. Despite emergency medical aid initiated by personnel, she was later pronounced deceased at the scene.

A preliminary investigation by Rome Police indicates the woman had recently walked to the location where she was found. “At this time, there is no evidence of foul play, and the death does not appear suspicious,” Madden confirmed in a statement released Tuesday afternoon.

The investigation into the woman’s death is ongoing. Her body has been transported by the Coroner’s Office to the GBI Crime Lab for further examination.

Authorities are withholding the identity of the deceased pending notification of next of kin. Further information will be released as it becomes available and appropriate, according to police.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, October 29, 2025:

Residents across Northwest Georgia are facing a cold and damp Wednesday as a slow-moving low-pressure system settled to the west continues to churn high volumes of moisture into the region.

The dominant weather pattern has ushered in widespread rain, lower-than-average temperatures for late October, and increased concern for localized flash flooding, particularly where storms repeatedly track over the same areas—a risk known as “storm training.”

Today’s Forecast: Heavy Rain and Gusty Winds

The primary weather driver is a sprawling low-pressure center whose counter-clockwise rotation is effectively “flinging in a lot of moisture” northward from the Gulf of Mexico. This continuous feed, combined with near 100% cloud cover and high humidity, guarantees a washout for most of the day.

Forecasters warn that while the entire region will see significant rainfall, the most pressing threat is the potential for flash flooding. High precipitable water values in the atmosphere mean any persistent showers could quickly overwhelm typical drainage systems.

Wednesday’s outlook includes:

Precipitation: A 100% chance of rain, primarily before 5 p.m., with new amounts expected to measure between three-quarters and one inch. Showers are likely to linger into Wednesday night, tapering off after midnight.
Temperatures: Highs will struggle to reach the mid-50s—significantly cooler than the historical average for late October. Overnight lows will dip into the mid-40s.
Wind: Winds will be breezy, flowing from the southeast at 10 to 15 mph, with gusts potentially hitting 30 mph, further contributing to the feeling of a cold and blustery day.

Flood Risk as Storms Repeat

Meteorologists emphasize that the combination of the slow-moving nature of the low and the steady moisture flow creates ideal conditions for “storm training.”

“When you have storms moving slowly down the same path, the total rainfall accumulation in those specific areas can jump drastically, creating an immediate flash flood risk,” explained a spokesperson from the National Weather Service.

The public is urged to monitor local flood alerts and exercise caution, especially when traveling, remembering the critical safety rule: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

Drying Trend Ahead

Fortunately, the low-pressure system responsible for the current misery is expected to move eastward, allowing drier air to begin filtering into Northwest Georgia by Thursday evening.

Thursday’s transition: A few lingering showers remain possible, mainly between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., but the chance of precipitation drops significantly to 20%. Conditions will remain mostly cloudy with highs staying cool near 56 degrees. Northwest winds will pick up, helping to usher in clearer weather. Thursday night will be notably colder, with lows dipping to around 37 degrees under mostly clear skies.

The full return to pleasant autumn weather is slated for the end of the week.

The weekend outlook:

Day Conditions High Temp Low Temp
Friday Sunny, drier air moves in Near 61°F Around 37°F
Saturday Mostly Sunny Near 63°F N/A

After a raw and rainy start, Northwest Georgia can look forward to a sunny, crisp, and seasonal weekend, marking a decisive end to the October soaking.

Months after launching an investigation into Zentell Communications and former Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Blake Elsberry, the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) has provided no new public statements, confirming only that the probe is “active and ongoing.”

This lack of new information comes as the owner of Chattanooga-based Zentell Communications admitted guilt earlier this year in failing to deliver a $300,000 internet broadband expansion project in Menlo, a project funded by the American Rescue Plan. Local city officials in Menlo have stated they never approved the project and observed no work being performed by the company.

Jonathan Allen, managing member of Zentell Communications, “effectively admitted guilt” regarding the unfulfilled Menlo broadband project in July, according to local officials.  The City of Menlo maintain they had no prior knowledge of the project and witnessed no activity by the company.

This situation is intertwined with a wider scandal involving potential misappropriation of funds in Chattooga County. Current Commissioner Andy Allen confirmed earlier this year that the GBI is continuing its investigation into former Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Blake Elsberry for suspected misappropriation of county funds.

The GBI’s investigation follows a civil lawsuit filed by Chattooga County in Superior Court in April against Zentell Communications and Jonathan Allen. The lawsuit alleges that Zentell received over $300,000 for work that was never performed under a contract approved by Elsberry during his tenure as commissioner. Chattooga County’s civil action accuses Zentell of breach of contract, willful misrepresentation, fraud, deceit, and misappropriation of county funds.

In a court document signed on July 14, Jonathan Allen reportedly admitted to the allegations presented in the Chattooga County lawsuit, agreeing to a consent judgment totaling $333,265.

Social media posts revealed that Blake Elsberry accepted a position with Zentell Communications immediately after leaving his role as county commissioner in January of this year. Elsberry initially announced this employment on social media, but has since reportedly removed all mentions of Zentell from his online profiles. Elsberry has maintained a public silence on the matter and has not issued any comments regarding the incidents or the ongoing state investigation.

With the GBI offering no further details, the community and interested parties await further developments in the investigation.

As autumn progresses in Northwest Georgia, Chattooga County residents are warned of an upcoming weather change, with the first frost of the season a possibility for Thursday and Friday nights. This shift in temperatures marks the end of the growing season for many sensitive plants. A high-pressure system will bring clear skies, calm winds, and cooler air, creating ideal conditions for frost.

Tonight, temperatures will remain too warm for frost, with lows in the mid-40s and possible showers. However, Thursday night shows a significant potential for frost as temperatures are expected to drop to the upper 30s, especially in low-lying or sheltered areas where cold air can settle. Friday night will likely be the coldest, coinciding with Halloween, with clear skies leading to conditions perfect for frost formation.

It’s important to note that frost can develop even when the air temperature is above freezing at weather stations, as surfaces can cool more quickly at night. Clear skies and calm winds allow heat to escape from the ground, causing frost to form if surface temperatures fall to 32°F or below, aided by enough moisture in the air.

Gardeners and homeowners should take protective actions for delicate plants expected to be harmed by frost. Sensitive plants include annuals, tropical varieties, late-season vegetables, and young perennials. Recommendations for protection include identifying vulnerable plants, covering them with sheets or burlap, avoiding direct plastic contact with leaves, watering beforehand to retain heat, moving potted plants indoors, using mulch for larger plants, and promptly removing coverings during the day.

The first frost marks a natural seasonal transition, bringing autumn’s beauty while emphasizing the need to prepare for colder weather ahead. Residents are advised to stay updated with local weather forecasts as conditions change.