Preston “Bumble” Hampton, son of Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton, models a high-visibility safety vest available at the tax commissioner’s office.

A Chattooga County truck driver and the County Tax Commissioner are joining forces to launch a pedestrian safety initiative in response to a series of nighttime pedestrian fatalities. Recent years have seen several tragic incidents where pedestrians were struck and killed after dark, highlighting a critical need for increased visibility and awareness. Marlie Payne, a local over-the-road truck driver and daughter of the late Chattooga County Probate Judge Jon Payne, is spearheading the effort.

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The American Red Cross of Georgia is issuing a call to help ensure no one faces a disaster alone by donating on Red Cross Giving Day, March 26.

During the first 50 days of 2025, Red Cross volunteers responded to more big disasters in the U.S. than days — including more than 50 volunteers from Georgia who went out to aid people impacted by Hurricanes Debby and Helene, the California Wildfires and the Kentucky floods. And that’s on top of everyday crises like home fires that have upended lives here in Georgia. Meanwhile, more Red Cross blood donations have gone uncollected so far this year due to weather than throughout all of 2024.

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The Walker County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) is offering a reward for information about 65-year-old Timothy McSears, who has been missing for over two weeks. His brother, Donnie McSears, expressed the family’s distress, saying it’s hard to cope with his absence. At a press conference, Sheriff Steve Wilson, along with McSears’ family, provided an update on the case. McSears was last seen at Mt. Zion Baptist Church on March 6, 2025, where he often volunteered. His family is concerned as he did not attend a family gathering. A local resident reported seeing him throwing away trash that same day. The last use of his phone was on March 7. There is a $10,000 reward for information leading to his whereabouts. If anyone has seen him or has information, they are encouraged to call 706-670-1953 or submit a tip online.

Georgia Power is warning its customers about a rise in scams where criminals pretend to be utility employees. These scammers make fraudulent calls and create misleading online ads to steal money or personal information. The company has noticed a spike in these deceptive activities, which include impersonating employees, making fake payment requests, and threatening to cut off power if immediate payments are not made. A spokesperson from Georgia Power emphasizes the importance of educating customers about these scams to help them stay safe.

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In honor of National Youth Art Month, Summerville Main Street is hosting “United Through Art,” a countywide student art show, today at the Summerville Depot. The free event celebrates the artistic talent of local youth, featuring artwork from students in grades K-12 across a variety of mediums.

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Georgia lawmakers are addressing a long-standing dispute regarding land in Tennessee that Congress originally assigned to Georgia in the 1700s.

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The Georgia Senate has passed a bill that would eliminate state income taxes on military retirement benefits, marking a significant step towards providing financial relief to veterans. The bill, a version originating from the Georgia House of Representatives, received Senate approval on Friday, paving the way for its return to the House for final consideration.

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The Summerville Veterinary Clinic responded to allegations on social media about the ownership and care of a dog with a gunshot wound to the face.

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A former Lyerly Fire Chief has passed away. Ronald “Ronnie” Daine Stephens, a devoted veteran, firefighter, and respected community member, died peacefully at home on March 20, 2025, at the age of 76. He was born on August 19, 1948, in Rome, GA, to Harbin Monroe and Ethel Lee Green Stephens. Mr. Stephens served in the U. S. Army and was a retired employee of Consolidated Freightways. A 1966 graduate of Chattooga High School, he continued to support his alma mater and served on the Class of 1970 Board in memory of his late wife, Sharon Norton Stephens. He dedicated 52 years to firefighting, including serving as Fire Chief for both the Lyerly and Powdersville, SC Fire Departments, as well as working with the Anderson County Hazardous Materials Team. Also, he was a dedicated worker with the Summerville Main Street Program. He was active in several organizations and is survived by his family. Funeral services will be on March 25, 2025, at Mason Funeral Home Chapel.

Rocking S Farm, LLC’s attempt to challenge Chattooga County’s ordinance regarding commercial poultry operations has been dealt a blow in the Superior Court of Chattooga County. In a ruling issued by Judge Don Thompson denied the farm’s request for a preliminary injunction and a declaratory judgment against the county’s ordinance. The legal battle, Civil Action File No. 2025CA45724, pitted Rocking S Farm, LLC against Andy Allen, in his official capacity as the sole county commissioner of Chattooga County.

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