Coffman Funeral Home Pettit Chapel is nearing completion of a new crematory, marking a significant development for funeral services in Chattooga County. Responding to rising cremation rates and increasing funeral costs, the facility will offer local families the option of in-county cremation services, ensuring their loved ones remain under Coffman’s care from start to finish. Owner Jamey Coffman cites a surge in cremation requests since the COVID-19 pandemic, with cremation services now accounting for nearly half of his business. Beyond evolving cultural preferences, the escalating costs of traditional burials, including rising cemetery fees, are a major factor driving the shift. “Everything is just getting more and more expensive,” Coffman stated, highlighting the financial strain traditional burials place on families. The new crematory, constructed within an existing structure behind the funeral home, will house a state-of-the-art cremation machine powered by natural gas. This allows Coffman Funeral Home to provide comprehensive, in-house cremation services, keeping families local and ensuring loved ones never leave their care. The crematory is expected to be fully operational later this year.

The City of Summerville is currently accepting applications for a Part-Time Main Street Assistant to support the Main Street Manager in daily operations and community initiatives. This position offers a dynamic opportunity to contribute to the beautification and vibrancy of Summerville’s downtown area. The Main Street Part-Time Assistant will be responsible for watering and maintaining the decorative planters that enhance the downtown streetscape. A key aspect of the role involves assisting with a variety of special events, including those held at the depot and throughout downtown, as well as participating in ongoing beautification projects. Candidates must be prepared for physical demands, including the ability to lift 50-75 lbs. The position involves a combination of fieldwork and office duties. Flexibility is crucial, as the role requires availability for flexible hours, including limited weekends and evenings. Minimum qualifications include possessing a valid driver’s license. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit an employment application to the City of Summerville. You can find a link to apply online HERE

The head of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce issued a stark warning about the growing impact of international trade tariffs on the state’s economy.

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Patty Durand, a former candidate for the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), has launched a new nonprofit organization, Georgia Utility Watch, dedicated to bringing transparency and accountability to energy regulation in the state.

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The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) and the City of Summerville, Georgia, have announced the first steam passenger train excursion of 2025, scheduled for May 3, 2025. The all-day train ride will transport passengers on a historic journey from Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the heart of Summerville, Georgia, offering a unique opportunity to experience the golden age of rail travel. The train will depart from TVRM’s Grand Junction depot in Chattanooga at 9 A.M. and return at approximately 6 P.M. The scenic route crosses the Tennessee-Georgia state line in Rossville, meandering through the outskirts of the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park and passing through Chickamauga, Rock Spring, LaFayette, and Trion before arriving in Summerville. Upon arrival in Summerville, passengers can enjoy “May Market & Melodies,” a festive celebration at the Historic Summerville Depot from 10 AM- 3 PM. The event will feature live music, delicious food, and a variety of craft vendors, offering a taste of Summerville’s local culture and community. The steam train excursion offers a nostalgic journey through beautiful landscapes, combined with a vibrant community celebration in Summerville. Round-trip tickets from Chattanooga start at $90. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s website HERE

Residents of Northwestl Georgia can expect another day of warm temperatures, with highs reaching the mid-80s; significant cloud cover will likely keep temperatures from soaring even higher. A weather system approaching from the west is bringing increased cloud cover today, particularly in northern Georgia. The chance of rain will significantly increase across northern Georgia on Monday as a front stalls to the north. Forecasters are predicting that Monday afternoon will see the potential for scattered storms across northern Georgia as the front approaches and surface-based instability builds. While severe weather is not anticipated due to a lack of wind shear, a few strong storms could briefly develop before fading after sunset. The extended forecast anticipates the stalled front bringing rain to northern Georgia Monday night and Tuesday. With the low-pressure system remaining to the north, the front is expected to linger across Northwest Georgia, leading to continued rainfall along that boundary. Beyond Tuesday, expect daily rain chances throughout the week, with the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms driven by diurnal heating. Rainfall totals from the Monday/Tuesday system are currently forecast to be around 1 inch.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, April 20, 2025:

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The national cannabis holiday ‘4/20’ can mean high stakes on our nation’s roadways. Recent AAA research revealed an alarming statistic: about 85% of cannabis users admit to driving the same day after consumption.

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The Georgia Department of Education is recognizing 145 graduating seniors across Georgia as 2025 Georgia Scholars, announced by State School Superintendent Richard Woods.

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