Several new legislators will start their first legislative session on January 13, joining returning legislators and leadership for another year of making laws at the Gold Dome.
Tina Cox, Executive Director of the Paradise Garden Foundation, is encouraging individuals to make a resolution for 2025: to incorporate more art into their lives. Cox believes that engaging with art can significantly enhance overall well-being and provide a fresh perspective on daily experiences. Located in Pennville in Chattooga County, Paradise Garden was once the vibrant home of the late folk artist Howard Finster, renowned for his unique and whimsical style. This artistic haven is now recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, drawing visitors from near and far in search of inspiration and creativity. Cox invites the community to explore the rich history of Paradise Garden and the legacy of Howard Finster. For those eager to discover the wonders of Paradise Garden, more information is available online at www.paradisegardenfoundation.org. Additionally, art enthusiasts can engage with the garden’s vibrant community by searching for Howard Finster’s Paradise Garden on social media platforms. This New Year, take a step towards enriching your life through art—visit Paradise Garden and immerse yourself in the creativity that awaits.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has given a Chattooga County native, Bode Brooks, a commission as a Kentucky Colonel. The honorary commission is given to outstanding citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and they retain the commission for their lifetime.
Menlo Lions Club will be making their famous Brunswick Stew on the 10th of January. Pick-up will be at Menlo Lunchroom Saturday morning between 7 and 10 AM. Contact Lee Majors at 706-862-2857 or Elaine at 706-844-2349. to order your stew. The price is $30 per gallon or $8 per quart. The stew sales helps the Menlo Lions Club give scholarships to Chattooga High School students who are going off to college next fall. The Menlo Lions Club also makes sure students who need glasses in our area receive them.
Announcement from Atrium Health Floyd:
Congratulations to Benjamin and Sandra Perez, of Cedartown, who are the proud parents of the first baby born in 2025 at Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center. Dylan Perez arrived Wednesday morning at 4:24. He weighed in at 7 pounds, 1 ounce and was 20 inches long. Dylan has a 2-year-old sister, Teresa.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, January 2, 2025:
According to a report released on Tuesday of this week by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, a 71-year-old man, identified as Marcelin Silvius, was arrested on December 24, 2024, after a traffic stop revealed he was impaired and driving recklessly.
Yesterday, Andy Allen took over the roll of sole commissioner of Chattooga County. Allen had no previous political experience but won over 60% of the vote in the GOP Primary in May 2024 and went unopposed in the General Election in November. During his campaign, he proposed ambitious plans to improve the county’s infrastructure, public services, and taxation fairness.
A vital Blood Assurance Blood Drive is set to take place on Friday, January 3, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Chattooga County EMA / 911 Headquarters, located at 170 Farrar Drive in Summerville. This event aims to encourage community members to roll up their sleeves and make a difference in the lives of those in need. To celebrate National Blood Donor Month, all blood donors will receive a complimentary “Save Lives” long-sleeve shirt, available while supplies last. This initiative not only provides an opportunity to give back but also raises awareness about the importance of blood donation. Organizers recommend that donors prepare for the event by enjoying a nutritious meal beforehand, avoiding energy drinks, staying hydrated with plenty of water, and bringing a valid form of identification. It’s important to remember that just one blood donation can save up to three lives. For those interested in participating, please visit www.bloodassurance.org/chattco or call 1-800-962-0628 to sign up. Your donation can make a significant impact
The Georgia state flag and the United States flag fly at half-mast in Plains, Georgia
In response to the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has signed two executive orders designed to honor the legacy of the former President, and provide support to the community during this time of mourning.