Here are the latest health inspection scores from the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the last half of March, 2025:

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April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, which highlights the serious issue of distracted driving in the U. S. Cell phone use, including texting, talking, and social media, is one of the main causes of this distraction. Distracted driving resulted in 3,308 deaths in 2022, making it a major concern. Other distractions include adjusting radios, using GPS, and eating. From April 7th to 14th, police will be more active in enforcing the “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign to raise awareness of the risks and penalties of texting while driving. Authorities suggest pulling over to text, designating a passenger for calls, and keeping phones out of reach. Communities are encouraged to promote safe driving and share pledges on social media to help reduce accidents.

Rising temperatures across Georgia are causing increased snake activity, prompting a surge of inquiries to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources regarding identification and safe encounter practices.

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Residents battling seasonal allergies in Northwest Georgia experienced a short-lived respite thanks to recent rainfall, but allergy experts warn the season is far from over. Tree pollen counts are expected to remain elevated throughout the month of April, continuing to plague sufferers. Over the past few days, pollen levels have soared, creating challenging conditions for those with allergies. The primary culprits are trees such as pine, mulberry, and willow, contributing to common symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, particularly on windy days. Georgia’s allergy season typically kicks off in late February and can linger until May or June. As April progresses, the situation is expected to worsen with the anticipated increase in grass pollen levels. Health professionals advise proactive management of allergy symptoms. Their recommendations include closely monitoring pollen counts, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollen hours, and utilizing appropriate medications as needed. Being proactive is key to managing your allergy symptoms effectively. By staying informed and taking preventative measures, you can better enjoy the spring season despite the high pollen counts. Residents are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized allergy management plan.

Georgia lawmakers have voted down a proposal to increase the salaries of top elected officials, including Governor Brian Kemp, dealing a blow to advocates who argued the raises were necessary to attract and retain qualified individuals in public service. The House of Representatives rejected amendments passed by the Senate that would have significantly increased Governor Kemp’s salary. The proposed amendment sought to raise Kemp’s current $182,000 salary by 37%, bringing it to $250,000 annually. If approved, this would have made Kemp one of the highest-paid governors in the nation, tied with New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The decision reflects concerns about fiscal responsibility and the timing of such increases. Legislators also voted against proposed pay raises for state legislators and other top-ranking elected officials. The failed measure leaves the current salary structure in place, prompting renewed debate about compensation levels for public servants in Georgia.

GNN / WSB

A Summerville woman received medical treatment on March 27th after being bitten by a stray dog during a neighborhood incident. Summerville Police responded to a call at 584 Scoggins Street at approximately 6:08 PM regarding a dog bite and a possible domestic dispute. Upon arrival, officers found Jennifer Saxon being treated for a bite wound on her hand by John Smith. According to the police report, Ms. Saxon was later transported to Chattooga County ER by EMS. Two dogs were present at the scene. One, described as a medium-sized brown dog with stripes, was identified as the aggressor and the one that bit Ms. Saxon. The second dog, possibly a blue heeler mix silver in color with black spots, was located in the back of a vehicle. Neither dog was leashed, and initial investigation revealed neither belonged to anyone at the scene. Officer Jacob Pledger contacted a resident at 485 Scoggins Street, who potentially owned the blue heeler mix. The brown striped dog, although wearing a collar, had no identifiable owner present. The brown striped dog was secured on a runner until animal control arrived. The blue heeler mix was returned to the address at 485 Scoggins Street. Ms. Saxon stated that she was outside with her own dog and attempting to prevent it from interfering in an altercation between the two stray dogs when the brown striped dog bit her. Photographs of the bite marks on Ms. Saxon’s hand were taken by police. The incident remains under investigation.

The Walker County Board of Commissioners will hold their regular meeting on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 6 PM at Courthouse Annex III, 201 S Main Street, LaFayette. The meeting will also be streamed live on the county’s Facebook page. The agenda includes important items such as resolutions and purchase orders related to county infrastructure and services.

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Authorities are investigating the death of an individual found dead near their running mini-van on Sunday morning. The circumstances surrounding the incident suggest the victim was run over by their own vehicle. The discovery was made at approximately 8:27 a.m. when a truck driver reported finding a body near an empty mini-van on Interstate 75 Northbound at an entrance ramp in Gordon County. Gordon County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Fire-Rescue crews responded to the scene, locating the body. Due to the unusual nature of the scene, the Gordon County Coroner and Georgia State Patrol Troopers were also called in. Preliminary investigation indicates the victim, who was not a resident of Gordon County, exhibited signs of being run over by a vehicle. A mini-van, identified as belonging to the victim, was found lodged against a guardrail nearby. The vehicle was reportedly still in gear with the engine running. A family member of the victim later confirmed that the deceased was driving the mini-van prior to the incident. At this time, law enforcement officials have found no evidence of foul play or indication that any other individuals were involved. The Georgia State Patrol is leading the ongoing investigation, with assistance from the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office deputies and the coroner. The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.

Residents of Northwest Georgia are bracing for a day of potentially severe weather as a line of strong storms moves across the region this morning and afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued statements about the possibility of damaging wind gusts, hail, and isolated tornadoes.

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