

Most Chattooga County homeowners should see lower property tax bills over the next two years as a result of state tax relief, local sales tax revenue and additional tax relief proposals, according to Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton.

Across the South, few traditions are as deeply rooted as the annual church Homecoming. While the celebration is a highlight of many congregations today, its history stretches back more than a century and reflects the close ties between churches, families and rural communities.

Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to experience James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park from the water during a Sunset Paddle on Saturday, July 25.
The ranger-led program begins at 8:30 p.m., with participants asked to meet at the park office by 8 p.m. before launching onto the park’s Lower Lake for an evening paddle as the sun sets.
Registration is required in advance. The cost is $20 per person, which includes kayak rental, or $10 per person for those bringing their own kayak. A $10 Georgia State Park pass is also required for entry.
Participants are encouraged to bring plenty of water and wear clothing that can get wet. The guided paddle offers an opportunity to enjoy the peaceful scenery of the lake while learning more about the park and its natural surroundings.
Space is limited, and advance registration is required. To register or for more information, call the James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park office at 706-857-0826.

The Chattooga County Agricultural Fair is gearing up for four days of family fun with carnival rides, live entertainment, educational exhibits and daily livestock shows when the fair returns August 27-30 at the Chattooga County Fairgrounds in Summerville.

A Summerville man was cited for public drunkenness Thursday evening following an incident on Fourth Street, according to the Summerville Police Department.
The citation states that Eli Nate Middlebrooks, 26, of Summerville, was issued a citation for public drunk, a violation of Summerville City Ordinance 38-1-10.
According to the officer’s narrative, police responded to a report of a subject yelling in the roadway in the 275 block of Fourth Street. Upon arrival, the officer observed Middlebrooks in the roadway and issued the citation.
The incident occurred on Thursday, July 16.
Middlebrooks is scheduled to appear in Summerville Municipal Court on September 15, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Chattooga County Courthouse Annex.

Licensed Practical Nurses and licensed Paramedics looking to advance their careers can now apply for Georgia Highlands College’s LPN/Paramedic Bridge to Registered Nurse (RN) Program.
Mr. David Lavaughn “Jerk” Wooten, age 63 of Summerville passed away Sunday, July 19, 2026 at his residence.
David was born in Rome, Georgia on March 29, 1963, son of the late Jimmy Shropshire and Lucille Vineyard Shropshire. He was a retired plumber and had attended the Pennville Church of Christ. David was an avid music lover, enjoyed playing the acoustic guitar and was in the honor band in high school. He also enjoyed fishing, camping and being outdoors.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by a brother, Clete Shropshire; nieces, Amanda Prestwood and Addie Shropshire and nephews, Corey Thompson and Jonathan Shrospshire.
David is survived by a sister, Angela Flegal; three brothers and sister-in-law, Victor Shropshire, Neil and Hope Shropshire and Tory Shropshire; and a number of aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
In accordance with his wishes, David will be cremated and there are no formal plans for a memorial service at this time.








