Red Cross Blood Drive Friday at The Bank of LaFayette

The Bank of LaFayette will host a community blood drive with Blood Assurance on Friday, February 13, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 101 W. Patton Street in LaFayette.

Community members are encouraged to give local and help save local lives. All donors between February 1–14 will receive a special “Donor for Life” tattoo shirt as a thank-you gift.

To prepare for donation, donors are asked to eat a good meal, drink extra water, avoid energy drinks, and bring a valid ID.

Appointments can be scheduled online at www.bloodassurance.org/bankla or by calling 1-800-962-0628.

Romance Scams Spike Ahead of Valentine’s Day, Authorities Warn Georgians to Stay Alert

As Valentine’s Day approaches, law enforcement agencies and consumer protection groups are warning residents to be on the lookout for romance scams, which tend to increase during the weeks leading up to the holiday. Scammers often target individuals through social media, dating apps, and messaging platforms, using fake profiles and emotional manipulation to build trust before asking for money.

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Arrest Report – Wednesday – February 4, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, February 4, 2026:

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Traffic Stop in Mentone Leads to Arrest in Multi-State Diesel Fuel Theft Investigation

A traffic stop early Monday morning in Mentone led to the arrest of a California man now accused of operating a sophisticated, multi-state diesel fuel theft scheme. Authorities say that on Monday, February 2nd, at approximately 2:20 AM, a DeKalb County Deputy stopped a U-Haul van traveling eastbound on Highway 117 near East River Road.

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Habitat for Humanity to Host Orientation Meeting for Prospective Homeowners in Chattooga County

  • February 4 at 10:00 a.m. — Community Resource Center of Chattooga, 50 Eleanor Ave., Summerville

Habitat for Humanity is inviting residents to learn more about the opportunity to become a homeowner through an upcoming Habitat for Humanity Orientation Meeting focused on families in Chattooga County. The meeting will explain how eligible families can receive a brand-new home through sweat equity and a very low mortgage payment.

Organizers say the program is designed for first-time homeowners who have lived in Chattooga County for at least one year, have sustainable income, and are willing to contribute sweat equity by helping build their home and others in the community. The orientation is open to renters and families who are interested in owning a safe, affordable home and want to learn more about the application process and requirements.

Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley serves Floyd, Chattooga, and Polk Counties in Northwest Georgia, working to expand access to safe, decent, and affordable housing across the region. Community members who think they may qualify are encouraged to attend and find out more information.

 

LaFayette Man Sentenced to 65 Years After Conviction on Child Molestation and Privacy Charges

A Walker County jury has convicted Michael Forker, a 74-year-old man from LaFayette, on charges of Child Molestation, Sexual Exploitation of Children, and five counts of Invasion of Privacy. Following the verdict on December 3, 2025, Forker was sentenced by Lookout Mountain Superior Court Chief Judge Brian House to 65 years in prison, with 58 years to be served in the Georgia Department of Corrections.

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Siemens Energy Announces $1 Billion U.S. Investment, Expands Fort Payne Operations

Siemens Energy announced Tuesday that it will invest $1 billion in its operations across the United States, including a major expansion at its facility in Fort Payne, Alabama. The investment is aimed at increasing manufacturing capacity to meet growing demand for power generation and electrical grid equipment.

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Trion City Schools Seeking Social Worker to Support Student Mental Health and Family Engagement

Trion City Schools is accepting applications for a School Social Worker to support student mental health, attendance, safety, and family engagement across the district. School officials say the position plays a critical role in providing counseling services, coordinating support plans, and connecting students and families with community resources.

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Chattooga Public Library Announces 2026 Royal Ball Dates, Tickets On Sale February 3

The Chattooga Public Library has announced its annual Royal Ball, set for March 14th, 20th, and 21st, 2026, with festivities beginning at 5:30 PM each evening. Families are invited to “join the princesses” for food, fun, and dancing.

Tickets go on sale February 3rd during library hours and cost $10, with each ticket admitting one child and one adult. For more information, contact the library at 706-857-2553—and organizers note that no tickets will be sold or reserved by phone.

Chattooga County Animal Shelter Launches “Adopt a Kennel” Sponsorship Program

The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is inviting the community to help support local dogs through a new “Adopt a Kennel” sponsorship program. The program is open to businesses, individuals, classrooms, families, and anyone who wants to help, offering a direct way to support the shelter and the animals in its care.

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