Truett McConnell University dedicated the Dr. Charles F. Stanley Global Impact Center in honor of the late Charles Stanley. Stanley, known for his impactful preaching and prayer life, served as pastor of Atlanta’s First Baptist Church for over 50 years and founded In Touch Ministries. The center, housing the Stanley Chair of Theology, was designed to spread the message of Christ worldwide, as inspired by Psalm 67:2. In addition to broadcasting “In Touch” in 160 languages, the center showcases Stanley’s photography and ministry artifacts.

Read more

A 22-year-old substitute teacher named Olivia Forrest was arrested on Friday at W. L. Swain Elementary School in Gordon County after grabbing a fourth-grade student. The incident was reported to school officials by the principal, Tara Green, who then contacted the Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office received a report and initiated an investigation. Superintendent Alice Mashburn emphasized the school district’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students. Forrest was charged with simple battery and disruption of a public school, and remains in custody at Gordon County Jail pending an ongoing investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.

Starting in January 2025, millions of Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 2. 5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to help combat inflation and rising living costs. The announcement made in October 2024 is welcome news for those relying on Social Security benefits. On average, recipients can expect a $49 monthly increase, bringing the typical payment to around $1,968 from $1,920. Specific adjustments include spouses of retired workers seeing a jump from $909. 78 to $932. 52, and nondisabled widows and widowers increasing from $1,784. 56 to $1,829. 17. While the increase will officially begin in January 2025, the timing of the first adjusted payment depends on the recipient’s birth date. Experts caution that the 2. 5% increase may not fully cover the rising costs faced by retirees, such as increasing healthcare and housing expenses. For example, Medicare Part B premiums are expected to rise by 5. 9% in 2025. Recipients are advised to plan accordingly for these factors that could impact their financial well-being amid escalating living costs.

A man in Floyd County was sentenced to five years in prison for torturing and burning a grey and white cat named Chestnut. The cat was found burnt with zip ties and trash in a front yard near an airport. Investigators tracked down 32-year-old Zachary Ky Murphy, who had scratches, adoption papers, a gas can, and a hammer. Murphy had just adopted the cat hours before at the Floyd County Animal Shelter. A report showed lung damage to the cat,  consistent with being strangled and burned alive. Murphy also charged with throwing a fake pipe bomb at a vape shop. He was sentenced to five years in prison for aggravated cruelty to animals, as well as additional charges.

The Chattooga County Board of Education has an immediate opening for a full-time Secretary to the Chief Academic Officer at its Central Office. This essential role supports the academic leadership of the district and is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in contributing to the educational landscape of Chattooga County Schools.

Read more

The City of Summerville has scheduled a Special Called Meeting on October 28, 2024, at 5:30 P. M. at Summerville City Hall to address an Alcohol Board hearing for a recent violation. Mayor Harry Harvey will lead the meeting with a roll call, invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda includes approval and consent items for quick agreement by council members. The new business segment will focus on discussing the alcohol violation and determining necessary actions. The public is invited to attend.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, October 26, 2024:

Read more

Chattooga 56- Dade 36

Trion had a bye week

Advance voting continues today at the Chattooga County Registrars Office for the upcoming November 5th General Election.  The hours for voting today are 9 AM until 5 PM.  All early voting in Chattooga County takes place at the Registrars Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville, adjacent to the Chattooga County Court House.  Be sure to bring a picture ID when you come to vote.  Next week, advance voting continues Monday – Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 6 PM.  If you have questions, you may contact the Chattooga County Registrars Office at 706-857-0739.