Mobile Home Tax Bills Delayed
Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton says that mobile home tax bills are being delayed and will not be in mailboxes this week as expected. The tax commissioner told WZQZ News that the bills are printed in Chattanooga and the printer is experiencing worker shortages and was not able to get the bills in time. Hampton said that even though mobile home taxes in Georgia are due on April 1st of each year, because of this delay, Chattooga County mobile home owners tax bills won’t be counted late until April 10, 2023. If you have any questions, you may contact the Chattooga County Tax Commissioner’s office at 706-857-0702. Remember, the Chattooga County Tax Office is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 7:30 AM until 5:30 PM and closed Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays and holidays.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - February 1, 2023
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, February 1, 2023:
Trion Man Arrested In Gordon County
A Chattooga County man was arrested last month in Gordon County for a probation violation. According to arrest records from the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office, forty-six-year-old Kenneth Wayne Bentley of Trion was arrested on January 18th on the probation charge stemming from his original arrest on possession of methamphetamine charges.
Woman Arrested Early Tuesday Morning After Banging On Mother's Window
Summerville Police responded to a call around 4:30 AM on Tuesday morning after a woman was repeatedly banging on her mother’s window at an apartment at the Summerville Housing Authority on Alred Street. When police arrived on the scene they found twenty-five-year-old Jodeci Walker and arrested her. Walker was charged with disorderly conduct and booked into the Chattooga County Jail. Police say that Walker was previously banned from Summerville Housing Authority property and was not supposed to be at her mother’s residence.
Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week
Attorney General Chris Carr, Interim State Revenue Commissioner Frank O’Connell, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are recognizing Jan. 30, through Feb. 3, 2023, as Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week by offering important tips on how to protect against identity theft and tax-related scams.
“During tax season, bad actors may use a stolen identity or pose as the IRS in an effort to steal your refund or get you to pay money you do not owe,” said Attorney General Chris Carr. “It is critically important that Georgia taxpayers take the necessary steps to protect their personal and financial information from potential thieves. Knowledge is key, and our Consumer Protection Division has put together a number of resources to help ensure your hard-earned dollars are kept safe and out of the hands of criminals.”
“The Department of Revenue’s mission to fairly and impartially administer Georgia’s tax laws means that we take every possible measure to guard against tax fraud,” said Interim State Revenue Commissioner Frank O’Connell. “Tax identity theft impacts the lives and livelihoods of Georgia filers and is a threat to our responsibility to be good stewards of taxpayer money.”
“Identity theft continues to be one of the top issues affecting Georgia consumers. BBB is proud to partner with Attorney General Carr and Commissioner O’Connell to keep Georgians informed and protected,” said Michele Mason of BBB.
Here’s what consumers need to know:
IRS Impersonation Scams
In this scam, fraudsters contact consumers by phone, purporting to be an IRS agent and claiming that the consumer owes the IRS money for back taxes. The scammer threatens arrest or legal action if the consumer does not immediately pay the money owed via wire transfer, gift cards or pre-paid debit card.
Consumers can easily be convinced that these calls are real as the scammer may know a consumer’s full or partial Social Security number (SSN) or even use spoofing software that causes the IRS name and/or number to show up in your caller ID.
Here is what you need to know to avoid this scam:
- The IRS will never call a consumer about unpaid taxes or penalties; the agency typically contacts consumers by letter via the U.S. Mail.
- The IRS won’t leave a message threatening to sue you, arrest you or deport you if you don’t pay right away.
- The IRS won’t demand a specific form of payment, such as an iTunes gift card, prepaid debit card, Green Dot Money Pak or wire transfer.
- If you get a call purporting to be from the IRS, never send money. Instead, hang up and either a) report the scam to the FTC and to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at tigta.gov or by calling 1-800-366-4484; or b) If you know you owe taxes or you think you might owe taxes, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. The IRS employees at that line can help you with a payment issue – if there really is such an issue.
- If you get an email that claims to be from the IRS, do not reply or click on any links. Instead, forward it to phishing@irs.gov.
Tax Identity Theft
This occurs when a fraudster uses your Social Security number (SSN) to file a tax return in your name and collect your refund. It also occurs when someone uses your SSN to get a job. Typically, consumers don’t realize they have been victims of tax identity theft until they get a written notice from the IRS saying that more than one tax return was filed using their SSN. If someone used your SSN to get a job, and the employer reports that person’s income to the IRS using your SSN, the IRS will send you a notice saying you received wages but didn’t report them.
The best way to avoid tax identity theft is to file your taxes as early as possible before a scammer has the chance to use your Social Security number to file a fraudulent return. This year the IRS will start accepting returns on January 24, 2023. The deadline for filing your taxes is still April 18, 2023.
As added security, tax filers can get an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS before they file their returns. This is a six-digit number, which, in addition to your Social Security number, verifies your identity. It is important to note that you cannot opt-out once you get an IP PIN. Once you apply for it, you must provide the IP Pin every time you file your federal tax returns – this year and in all future years. The IRS will provide your IP PIN online. A new IP PIN is generated for each filing season and can be retrieved starting in mid-January of each year by logging into the account you create.
Visit irs.gov/individuals/get-an-identity-protection-pin for more information about the program.
If you are the victim of tax identity theft, contact the IRS at 1-800-908-4490. You should also file a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP.
Free Filing and Tips
Many taxpayers are eligible for free tax preparation and e-filing through the IRS’ Free File program, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), or Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program. The IRS says more than nine out of ten taxpayers due a refund for the 2022 tax year will get it within 21 days if they file electronically and have the money deposited directly into their bank account.
The IRS’ Free File Program is a partnership with tax preparers and software companies that offer free online preparation and e-filing of your tax returns to individuals and families with adjusted gross incomes of $73,000 or less. To learn more, visit www.irs.gov/uac/Free-File:-Do-Your-Federal-Taxes-for-Free.
The Georgia Department of Revenue is working with software vendors to offer free electronic filing services to qualified Georgia taxpayers. Qualifying taxpayers can prepare and file both federal and Georgia individual income tax returns electronically using approved software for less or free of charge.
Visit the Georgia Department of Revenue’s Free File Alliance at dor.georgia.gov/free-file-alliance.
If your adjusted gross income is more than $73,000, you can use free fillable forms via the IRS website (for federal return only); however, you need to know how to do your taxes yourself and have access to your 2021 tax return.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free basic income tax preparation to those who generally make $60,000 or less, people with disabilities, and those with limited English-speaking ability.
The Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program offers free tax help, particularly for those who are 60 years of age and older, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors.
To locate a VITA or TCE site near you, use the VITA/TCE Locator Tool at irs.gov/individuals/find-a-location-for-free-tax-prep.
If, on the other hand, you decide to hire someone to prepare your taxes for you, make sure you research the tax preparer thoroughly before you hand over personal information.
More tax tips can be found on the websites of the IRS and the Georgia Department of Revenue at irs.gov and dor.georgia.gov.
Reporting Resources
If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), you’re also encouraged to report it on BBB ScamTracker at bbb.org/scamtracker. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams.
Finally, to report a scam or file a complaint about a business that is using unfair or deceptive practices, contact the Office of the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division by visiting consumer.ga.gov or calling 404-651-8600.
TVCU Hiring Event
The Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union (TVFCU) is hosting a career fair with a wide variety of entry and high-level positions available. Entry-level openings include personal teller positions with the tvfcuLIVE Studio and tvfcuLIVE Line and other customer service jobs in branches across Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia. Positions requiring industry experience include branch manager, senior programmer analyst, mortgage underwriter, desktop specialist and part-time marketing specialist. TVFCU’s marketing department is also seeking a community engagement intern.
Entry-level positions start at $16/hour, more than doubling the minimum wage in Tennessee and Georgia. TVFCU offers all full-time individual employees 100% employer-paid medical, dental, basic term life and long-term disability insurance with very affordable vision coverage and other low-cost options. The credit union also offers a 401k with employer match, a “success sharing” annual bonus program, tuition assistance and a student loan repayment program.
Job fair attendees will participate in a one-on-one introductory interview with a TVFCU recruiter. This will provide job-seekers the opportunity to learn more about open positions, connect with the TVFCU recruiting team and take the first step toward a new career at the largest credit union in southeast Tennessee.
Job seekers are encouraged to browse current openings and apply before the event at TVFCU’s online Career Center. They may also complete an application at the event using their smartphone.
Visit tvfcu.com/jobs for more information.
WHERE The BX – Brainerd Baptist Church’s multi-use meeting facility
4011 Austin St.
Chattanooga, TN 37411
WHEN Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
No appointment necessary – attendees may arrive any time between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Department of Labor Accepting 2023 HIRE Vets Medallion Awards’ Applications
The U.S. Department of Labor announced Tuesday, that it is accepting applications for the 2023 HIRE Vets Medallion Award. The award is presented annually to employers that meet standards for excellence in the recruitment, hiring and retention of America’s military veterans.
Initiated by the Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act, the award recognizes small businesses, non-profit organizations and large companies for leadership in promoting veterans’ employment. The open application period begins the 2023 HIRE Vets Medallion Award cycle. Employers meeting criteria for the award will join more than 1,600 employers recognized by the department for their support of America’s veterans.
“The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is the only federal-level veterans’ employment award that recognizes a proven commitment to veteran hiring,” said Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh. “The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is a meaningful and important recognition. Veterans and their families benefit from careers with real growth potential and employers gain dedicated, qualified employees who can make a significant contribution to the bottom line.”
To complete the application process, employers must verify that their organization meets award requirements, pay the application fee and comply with the rules promulgated by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Act. Employers must apply by April 30, 2023.
Health Inspection Scores - Last Half Of January 2023
There were no health inspections reported by the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the last half of January 2023. Should you ever have any complaint with any food service or tourist accommodation that operates in Chattooga County, you may register that complaint by calling the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department at 706-857-3377.
Judicial Commission Recommends Removal of Coomer
The state’s Judicial Qualifications Commission issued a report Monday recommending that Georgia Appeals Court Judge Christian Coomer be removed from office.
Coomer is accused of a number of ethics violations stemming from allegations that he defrauded an elderly client while working as a private attorney in Cartersville.
Coomer reportedly borrowed $159,000 from an eighty-year-old man with the understanding the money would be paid back in a year, but the agreement actually said thirty years – when the man would be well into his 100’s. In all Coomer is accused of borrowing over $350,000 from the same man, all with terms that were favorable to Coomer. He is also accused of illegally transferring campaign funds between himself and his political campaign fund.
Coomer, a Republican, represented Floyd and Bartow counties in the Georgia House of Representatives for eight years, until he was appointed to the Court of Appeals in 2018. A fifty-page report and recommendation states there is “clear and convincing evidence” to support the charges leveled against Coomer.
Compiled Sources
Rep. Lumsden Weekly Report
State Rep. Eddie Lumsden, (R-Armuchee) released his weekly legislative report. In the report, he talks about Governor Brian Kemp’s State of the State address last week and the governor’s priorities for this legislative session. In that address, the governor announced his plans to establish the Rural Workforce Housing Fund, which would help local development and housing authorities usher in new affordable housing developments in these areas. Lumsden said, ” I look forward to partnering with the governor and my legislative colleagues this session to explore other ways to support our growing workforce and provide affordable living opportunities for workers across our state”. You can read Rep. Lumsden’s complete report below:
The Georgia House of Representatives returned to the Gold Dome for the third week of the 2023 legislative session on Monday, January 23. This week brought more exciting and important work as the House met for four legislative days. We voted on our first set of local bills of the session, and several House committees held their first meetings. Members of the House and Senate also came together for a joint session to hear Governor Brian Kemp deliver his fifth annual State of the State address.
On Wednesday, the House Chamber was packed full as the legislature convened for Gov. Kemp’s State of the State address. This annual gathering provides a unique opportunity for our governor to present his assessment on the current condition of our state government, as well as present his legislative priorities for the year ahead, which include investing in our classrooms, workforce, public safety and health care.
Before discussing his priorities for the session, the governor reflected on the foundation we have built together and the progress our state has experienced over the last year. In less than a year, the state announced four of the largest economic development projects in our state’s history, and these projects combined will create more than 20,000 jobs and spur more than $17 billion in investment just in rural Georgia. The governor also touted that 17,500 new jobs and $13 billion in investment have been announced in just the last few months, and 85 percent of these jobs will support various regions of our state, not just metro Atlanta. To support both new employees and existing communities where these new jobs will be located, the governor
announced his plans to establish the Rural Workforce Housing Fund, which would help local development and housing authorities usher in new affordable housing developments in these areas. I look forward to partnering with the governor and my legislative colleagues this session to explore other ways to support our growing workforce and provide affordable living opportunities for workers across our state.
This next year, one of the governor’s top priorities includes passing legislation that supports our K-12 public school systems. First, Gov. Kemp seeks to dedicate an additional $1.9 billion in the current and upcoming budgets solely for education needs, including fully funding the Quality Basic Education formula. He also plans to reinforce the teacher workforce pipeline by providing a $2,000 pay raise in the FY 2024 budget for teachers and certified school personnel, among other measures. The governor previously worked with the state legislature to raise teacher pay by $5,000 during his first term in office, and the proposed $2,000 pay increase would make the average teacher’s salary in Georgia more than $7,000 higher than the Southeast regional average. The governor will also partner with the House and Senate this session to provide grant funding to encourage paraprofessionals to pursue a full teaching certification, which would result in nearly 5,000 certified teachers joining the ranks.
In addition, the governor plans to invest in our state’s workforce pipeline by fully funding Georgia’s HOPE scholarship and grant awards at 100 percent of tuition at Georgia’s public higher education institutions. With strong support from both sides of the aisle, this would be the first time in more than a decade since the program provided scholarships at 100 percent of tuition. The governor also noted that he will continue to focus on apprenticeships, dual enrollment pathways and degrees that align with the state’s job creators over the next year.
Our state has also made monumental investments over the last four years to create safer communities for Georgians to live, work and raise a family. During the governor’s first term, the General Assembly helped create the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Anti-Gang Task Force and the attorney general’s Gang Prosecution Unit to take violent offenders out of our communities. Just six months after launching the new prosecution unit, more than 50 gang members have been indicted. To ensure continued success, the governor will push for legislation this session that would increase penalties for individuals who try to recruit children into a gang. Georgia’s First Lady, Marty Kemp, will also continue working with the Grace Commission, House and Senate leaders, the attorney general and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to end human trafficking in Georgia, while also making the state a safe haven for victims. This session, Gov. Kemp and First Lady Kemp announced their support for increasing penalties for organizations that fail to provide resources on how to spot human trafficking and what actions to take to stop it. I will provide updates on these important criminal justice measures as they come before the House.
The governor went on to outline his plan to address the growing needs of our health care workforce. During his address, the governor shared that 67 counties in Georgia have less than 10 physicians operating within county lines, and the state’s nursing shortage continues to impact our health care system. As such, the governor proposed allocating more than $4.5 million in the state budget for loan repayment programs to recruit and retain health care workers here in Georgia. He also urged the General Assembly to fund 102 additional residency slots at hospitals across the state by investing $1.7 million in the state budget, and these new slots would exceed the initial goal for the state’s residency program. The General Assembly recognizes the vital work our
health care heroes do every day, and I appreciate Governor Kemp for working with us to address the state’s health care worker shortages.
This session, the governor will also continue his work to offer insurance coverage to more Georgians, as well as expand vital state programs that support our more vulnerable populations. The state’s reinsurance program, which launched during the governor’s first term, has reduced premiums by an average of 12.4 percent statewide for the 2023 reinsurance plan compared to premiums without the program, representing an average premium reduction of nearly $1,000 for participants. Furthermore, reinsurance program participants in rural counties have seen their premiums drop from 25 to more than 40 percent. The governor also took time to update my colleagues and me about the Patient’s First Act, which enabled our state to submit federal waivers to explore innovative solutions for health care coverage. Before the Patient’s First Act, zero counties in our state had more than two health insurance carriers. Now, 86 percent of counties have three or more carriers, and enrollment in the individual marketplace has increased to more than 700,000 citizens, more than doubling the enrollment amount since 2019. The governor also announced that the state is on target to launch the Georgia Pathways to Coverage Program this July, and this program could help approximately 345,000 Georgians qualify for health care coverage for the first time without impacting those who qualify for regular Medicaid. To launch the program this summer, the governor proposed including $52 million in the upcoming fiscal year budget, which would go into effect this summer. Finally, we learned that the governor will support legislation this session to allow eligible pregnant women to receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits before giving birth. Currently, expectant mothers are unable to receive TANF benefits until after the child is born, but providing
these vital cash assistance benefits sooner would allow these moms to focus on their growing babies instead of worrying about financial burdens.
In addition to hearing the State of the State address this week, my colleagues and I welcomed two very special groups in the House Chamber. On Monday, the Consul General of the Republic of Korea Yoonjoo Park joined us to honor of Korean American Day at the State Capitol. The consul general provided special remarks to highlight the strong bond of friendship between his nation and the state of Georgia, and we will continue to foster this relationship as we invest in future-oriented industries. According to Consul General Park, more than 100 Korean companies, including Kia, SK Battery America and now Hyundai, are operating in our great state. These companies have produced more than 15,000 jobs in the last five years and have spurred a cumulative investment of approximately $21 billion in Georgia. I am proud to live in a state that promotes mutually beneficial relationships with other nations, like the Republic of Korea, and it was an honor to celebrate the economic advancements made in our state because of this strong alliance. Additionally, the House recognized Georgia National Guard Day at the Capitol on Thursday. Several Georgia National Guard leaders joined us in the House Chamber during their visit to the Gold Dome, and Brigadier General John Gentry commended the House for its continued support over the years. The guard’s motto is “always ready, always there,” and Georgia’s 15,000 guardsmen continually fulfill their mission to always be ready to serve our citizens, especially over these last several years. From serving at our local food banks to protecting our cities during civil unrest, our state defense force steps in when our communities need it the most, and I commend the guard for their service to our state.
Finally, several House committees began meeting this week to adopt committee rules and even discuss some of the first bills of the session. Every bill that comes before us faces an
extensive evaluation process by its assigned committee, and many of the bills this session will undergo changes throughout the committee process to help perfect the legislation. As we continue through the session, I hope that you will reach out with your questions or concerns about legislation that may come before the House, including bills that are in the committee process. You are also welcome to schedule a phone call or plan a visit to the State Capitol to discuss matters that are important to you and your community. You can reach me at 404-656-7850 and Eddie.Lumsden@house.ga.gov.
As always, thank you for allowing me to serve as your representative.
Eddie Lumsden
This next year, one of the governor’s top priorities includes passing legislation that supports our K-12 public school systems. First, Gov. Kemp seeks to dedicate an additional $1.9 billion in the current and upcoming budgets solely for education needs, including fully funding the Quality Basic Education formula. He also plans to reinforce the teacher workforce pipeline by providing a $2,000 pay raise in the FY 2024 budget for teachers and certified school personnel, among other measures. The governor previously worked with the state legislature to raise teacher pay by $5,000 during his first term in office, and the proposed $2,000 pay increase would make the average teacher’s salary in Georgia more than $7,000 higher than the Southeast regional average. The governor will also partner with the House and Senate this session to provide grant funding to encourage paraprofessionals to pursue a full teaching certification, which would result in nearly 5,000 certified teachers joining the ranks.
In addition, the governor plans to invest in our state’s workforce pipeline by fully funding Georgia’s HOPE scholarship and grant awards at 100 percent of tuition at Georgia’s public higher education institutions. With strong support from both sides of the aisle, this would be the first time in more than a decade since the program provided scholarships at 100 percent of tuition. The governor also noted that he will continue to focus on apprenticeships, dual enrollment pathways and degrees that align with the state’s job creators over the next year.
Our state has also made monumental investments over the last four years to create safer communities for Georgians to live, work and raise a family. During the governor’s first term, the General Assembly helped create the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Anti-Gang Task Force and the attorney general’s Gang Prosecution Unit to take violent offenders out of our communities. Just six months after launching the new prosecution unit, more than 50 gang members have been indicted. To ensure continued success, the governor will push for legislation this session that would increase penalties for individuals who try to recruit children into a gang. Georgia’s First Lady, Marty Kemp, will also continue working with the Grace Commission, House and Senate leaders, the attorney general and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to end human trafficking in Georgia, while also making the state a safe haven for victims. This session, Gov. Kemp and First Lady Kemp announced their support for increasing penalties for organizations that fail to provide resources on how to spot human trafficking and what actions to take to stop it. I will provide updates on these important criminal justice measures as they come before the House.
The governor went on to outline his plan to address the growing needs of our health care workforce. During his address, the governor shared that 67 counties in Georgia have less than 10 physicians operating within county lines, and the state’s nursing shortage continues to impact our health care system. As such, the governor proposed allocating more than $4.5 million in the state budget for loan repayment programs to recruit and retain health care workers here in Georgia. He also urged the General Assembly to fund 102 additional residency slots at hospitals across the state by investing $1.7 million in the state budget, and these new slots would exceed the initial goal for the state’s residency program. The General Assembly recognizes the vital work our
health care heroes do every day, and I appreciate Governor Kemp for working with us to address the state’s health care worker shortages.
This session, the governor will also continue his work to offer insurance coverage to more Georgians, as well as expand vital state programs that support our more vulnerable populations. The state’s reinsurance program, which launched during the governor’s first term, has reduced premiums by an average of 12.4 percent statewide for the 2023 reinsurance plan compared to premiums without the program, representing an average premium reduction of nearly $1,000 for participants. Furthermore, reinsurance program participants in rural counties have seen their premiums drop from 25 to more than 40 percent. The governor also took time to update my colleagues and me about the Patient’s First Act, which enabled our state to submit federal waivers to explore innovative solutions for health care coverage. Before the Patient’s First Act, zero counties in our state had more than two health insurance carriers. Now, 86 percent of counties have three or more carriers, and enrollment in the individual marketplace has increased to more than 700,000 citizens, more than doubling the enrollment amount since 2019. The governor also announced that the state is on target to launch the Georgia Pathways to Coverage Program this July, and this program could help approximately 345,000 Georgians qualify for health care coverage for the first time without impacting those who qualify for regular Medicaid. To launch the program this summer, the governor proposed including $52 million in the upcoming fiscal year budget, which would go into effect this summer. Finally, we learned that the governor will support legislation this session to allow eligible pregnant women to receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits before giving birth. Currently, expectant mothers are unable to receive TANF benefits until after the child is born, but providing
these vital cash assistance benefits sooner would allow these moms to focus on their growing babies instead of worrying about financial burdens.
In addition to hearing the State of the State address this week, my colleagues and I welcomed two very special groups in the House Chamber. On Monday, the Consul General of the Republic of Korea Yoonjoo Park joined us to honor of Korean American Day at the State Capitol. The consul general provided special remarks to highlight the strong bond of friendship between his nation and the state of Georgia, and we will continue to foster this relationship as we invest in future-oriented industries. According to Consul General Park, more than 100 Korean companies, including Kia, SK Battery America and now Hyundai, are operating in our great state. These companies have produced more than 15,000 jobs in the last five years and have spurred a cumulative investment of approximately $21 billion in Georgia. I am proud to live in a state that promotes mutually beneficial relationships with other nations, like the Republic of Korea, and it was an honor to celebrate the economic advancements made in our state because of this strong alliance. Additionally, the House recognized Georgia National Guard Day at the Capitol on Thursday. Several Georgia National Guard leaders joined us in the House Chamber during their visit to the Gold Dome, and Brigadier General John Gentry commended the House for its continued support over the years. The guard’s motto is “always ready, always there,” and Georgia’s 15,000 guardsmen continually fulfill their mission to always be ready to serve our citizens, especially over these last several years. From serving at our local food banks to protecting our cities during civil unrest, our state defense force steps in when our communities need it the most, and I commend the guard for their service to our state.
Finally, several House committees began meeting this week to adopt committee rules and even discuss some of the first bills of the session. Every bill that comes before us faces an
extensive evaluation process by its assigned committee, and many of the bills this session will undergo changes throughout the committee process to help perfect the legislation. As we continue through the session, I hope that you will reach out with your questions or concerns about legislation that may come before the House, including bills that are in the committee process. You are also welcome to schedule a phone call or plan a visit to the State Capitol to discuss matters that are important to you and your community. You can reach me at 404-656-7850 and Eddie.Lumsden@house.ga.gov.
As always, thank you for allowing me to serve as your representative.
Eddie Lumsden
Inmates Back In Chattooga County Jail
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader says that inmates returned to the Chattooga County Jail over the past weekend after being housed in Dade County for several days after a furnace malfunction.
On Monday, January 23rd a gas leak caused by the faulty furnace prompted the sheriff to evacuate the jail and send the inmates to Dade County.
Sheriff Schrader told WZQZ News that the furnace was installed in the jail in the early 1980’s when the jail was originally built. After having HVAC professionals look at the unit, the sheriff decided to replace both furnaces at the jail that were used to heat cell blocks.
Sheriff Schrader expressed his appreciate to the Dade County Sheriff’s office for their assistance while the furnaces were being replaced at the Chattooga County Jail.
Update From GSP About Accident On Gore-Subligna Road
The Georgia State Patrol post in Rome has released the following statement about a woman who fell from a vehicle last Friday on the Gore-Subligna Road:
A female, identified as Lauren Lewis, age 35 of Summerville, was traveling west on Gore Subligna Road in a 1999 GMC Sonoma pickup truck, the Sonoma was being driven by her mother, Shirley Warren. Ms. Lewis was riding in the bed of the truck attempting to secure two mattresses and a wooden bed frame. While traveling on Gore Subligna Road, the wooden bed frame shifted, and both the frame and Ms. Lewis were ejected from the vehicle. Ms. Lewis struck the paved surface of Gore Subligna Road and sustained an injury. Ms. Lewis was transported to Atrium Floyd Medical Center by EMS for treatment. Ms. Lewis was admitted into the ICU upon her arrival. On January 28, 2023, at 1:27 p.m., the investigating Trooper was notified by Chattooga County Coroner Earle Rainwater that Ms. Lewis had succumbed to her injuries.
The incident is still under investigation.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - January 31, 2023
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, January 31, 2023:
Rock Busts Window On University Street
Summerville Police responded to a call on Saturday about a busted window on University Street. The homeowner believed that someone had shot the window, causing it to break. However, when a responding officer looked at the window, the hole was much larger than any bullet round. The officer then found a rock in the floor of the residence that appeared to have been thrown at the window. The residents at the house told the officer that they had no idea who might have done the damage, and had not been in any kind of altercations or arguments that might have contributed to the incident. The officer said that extra patrols would be on hand for the area.
Georgia Gas Prices Are Up Again This Week
Georgia gas prices rose at the pump compared to a week ago. Georgia drivers are now paying an average price of $3.39 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline (subject to change overnight). Monday’s state average was 14 cents more than a week ago, 67 cents more than a month ago, and 20 cents more than this time last year. It now costs $50.85 to fill a 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline. Drivers are now paying $3.00 more to fill up at the pump compared to a year ago.
“Georgians continue to take a punch at the pump,” said Montrae Waiters, AAA-The Auto Club Group spokeswoman. “The rise in crude oil prices continues to be the major culprit for higher pump prices nationwide. Unfortunately, we cannot predict how high gas prices will rise this week, therefore, drivers are encouraged to follow AAA money-saving tips listed below.”
Pump Prices Keep Rising Higher
Since last Monday, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has increased by 9 cents to $3.50. According to data from the Energy Information Administration, gas demand rose slightly from 8.05 to 8.14 million barrels a day last week. Although winter storms at the end of 2022 have contributed to tighter supply, the mild winter this month may have led to more drivers getting behind the wheel, pushing pump prices higher. Meanwhile, total domestic gasoline stocks increased by 1.7 million barrels to 232 million barrels. Rising gas demand and elevated oil prices have contributed to higher pump prices. If demand continues to grow, drivers will likely see pump prices increase this week.
Area Gas Prices
In our area, Chattooga and Walker Counties had gas averaging $3.30 per gallon. In Floyd County gas was averaging $3.38 per gallon and in Gordon County $3.37 per gallon. Across the state line in Alabama, DeKalb County gas was averaging $3.32 a gallon. The cheapest gas in our area can currently be found in Cherokee County, Alabama where gas is averaging $3.14 per gallon.
Chattooga Young Farmer Scholarship Deadline
The Chattooga Young Farmers offer a scholarship opportunity for seniors who are planning to major in agriculture or an agriculture related field. Priority is given to children or grandchildren of Chattooga Young Farmer members. The scholarship is awarded at the sole discretion of the Chattooga Young Farmer Scholarship Committee. The deadline to register is March 15, 2023. If you have any questions, you can contact Chattooga Young Farmer Director Lauren Jarrett at ljarrett@chattooga.k12.ga.us.
Upcoming Spring Events at the Chief Vann House
There is a great run of family friendly programs coming up this spring at the Chief Vann House Historic Site, and even an educational adult only program. For more details on each program, visit us online at gastateparks.org/chiefvannhouse or our Facebook at ‘Friends of the Chief Vann House.’
Coming up soon on Saturday, February 5th, the Vann House is participating in the Georgia Historical Society’s ‘Super Museum Sunday,’ and we will be offering free admission from 1-5p.m. Families can enjoy a free open-house style tour of the historic Vann House, tour the Visitor Center gallery containing artifacts, historic documents, historic illustrations, and more. Visitors can also explore our outdoor exhibits: A 19th Century Cherokee Farmstead, a Vann Workhouse/Kitchen two-story cabin, a 1920s spring/bath house atop a natural fresh-water springs, and a one-mile medium difficulty nature trail to the original site of the Moravian Mission. Please arrive by 4p.m. to best enjoy your experience, museum and grounds close at 5p.m.
Enjoy a day of archaeology themed activities on Saturday, April 1st, from 10a.m.-4p.m. Families can discover “artifacts” in our dig-boxes or learn about ancient pottery by crafting your own. Join a ranger to see and touch hand-crafted, pre-contact tools and weapons as used by Native Americans. See the tools used by modern archaeologists from Kennesaw State University’s Student Anthropology Club. Speak with state archaeologists as they present artifacts and maps from the Vann House’s past excavations. Andrew Lee of ‘The Primitive Arts” will be demonstrating knapping, the crafting stone tools. Visitors can piece together broken pottery, participate in an activity on soil stratigraphy, and more. There are no excavations currently taking place at the Vann House.
If botany is your interest, check out Apple Grafting on Sunday April 2nd with Joshua Fuder, Agriculture & Natural Resource Agent from Cherokee County’s UGA Extension Lab. Joshua’s work as a botanist and apple restoration enthusiast brings him to the Vann House to host a full class on grafting your own apple trees from root stock. Participants will leave with their own newly grafted roots after an in-depth class. Due to working with sharp instruments, participants must be 18+. Call to pre-register.
Visitors who tour the Vann House during March and April can view our collection of framed, unique 18th century maps featuring the southeastern states or early British Colonies, and the development of the charted Gulf and Atlantic shorelines. These maps are donated replicas (copies) of rare collections that tell the early story of European settlers beginning to chart and immigrate into the shores of the “New World” in search of minerals, slaves, and in many cases, a new home. The maps will be on display in the Vann House and are include in admission.
Regular hours: Thursday-Saturday 9-5, Sunday 1-5. December-March: closed on Sunday.
Last tour of the day always begins at 4 p.m.
82 Hwy. 225 N., Chatsworth, GA 30705 · Murray County
706-695-2598 · vann_house_park@dnr.ga.gov
The mission of the Department of Natural Resources is to sustain, enhance, protect and conserve Georgia’s natural, historic and cultural resources for present and future generations, while recognizing the importance of promoting the development of commerce and industry that utilize sound environmental practices.
Chattooga Democrats Hosting Black History Month Celebration
The Democratic Party of Chattooga County is pleased to sponsor a community celebration of Black History Month on Saturday, February 25 at 6pm. The event, titled “An Extravaganza: Celebration Our Heritage Through Poem and Song,” will feature local talent performing songs, dances and spoken word tributes to black history.
This special event will take place at the Spirit and Truth of Jesus Church Fellowship Hall located at 487 Scoggins Street in Summerville
If you would like to perform at the event, please contact Pam Albert at (706) 859-8044 for more information on how to participate.
Summerville Police Respond To Attempted Burglary
Last Friday night, Summerville police responded to a call about an attempted burglary on Scoggins Street. The responding officer met with the homeowner who said someone had attempted to kick in the back storm door on his residence. The homeowner noticed the damage to the back storm door when he went to take out the trash. Police say that they found a muddy shoe print on the door where the would-be burglar had attempted to kick it in. The incident is believed to have happened around 7 PM. The homeowner noticed it and police arrived around 9 PM. Police took a picture of the shoe print for evidence. The homeowner estimated the damage to the door to be around $200.
Summerville Man Arrested In Tennessee
A Chattooga County man was being held in the Sevier County, Tennessee jail after being arrested last week. According to arrest records from the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, thirty-five-year-old Zackery Lee Livey of Summerville was arrested on Monday of last week and charged with a warrant for failure to appear. Lively was being held on a $4,610.71 bond, according to arrest records.
