The U.S. Department of Labor reported late last week that Georgia’s initial unemployment benefit filings increased last week compared to the previous week. According to the Labor Department, the number of new jobless claims, which are a stand-in for layoffs, rose from 3,598 the week before to 9,446 in the week ending December 7. On a seasonally adjusted basis, U.S. unemployment claims increased by 17,000 from 225,000 the previous week to 242,000 last week. With a 162.5% increase in weekly claims, Georgia experienced the biggest percentage increase. Meanwhile, with a 36.7% decrease in new claims, Delaware experienced the biggest percentage decline.

Georgia gas prices increased slightly at the pump compared to a week ago. Drivers pay an average of $2.91 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline (subject to change overnight). Monday’s state average was 1 cent more than a week ago, 3 cents less than a month ago, and 6 cents less than this time last year. It costs drivers an average price of $43.65 to fill a 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline. Georgians now pay 45 cents less to fill up at the pump compared to a month ago.

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In a significant decision impacting the Chattooga River here in Chattooga County,  and waterways across Georgia, a legislative study committee has recommended maintaining the existing definition of “navigability” in state law. The House Study Committee on Navigable Streams released its final report this past week, choosing to keep the status quo intact despite persistent debates between property owners and outdoor enthusiasts regarding public access rights to rivers and streams.

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Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, December 16, 2024:

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Kindred Fire is thrilled to announce the Yuletide Jamboree Show & Market on Thursday, Dec. 19, at The Vogue in Rome, Georgia. Presented in partnership with Russell Cook & the Sweet Teeth and Paradise Gardens, this festive event blends live music, local artistry and holiday cheer while celebrating the enduring legacy of visionary artist Howard Finster.

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There were no health inspections to report from the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the first half of December.  Should you ever have any complaint with any food service or tourist accommodation that operates in Chattooga County, you may file that complaint with the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department by calling 706-857-3377.

The Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office will hold its last meeting of the year on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 10 AM at the Chattooga County Civic Center, located on Highway 48 in Summerville across from Truist Bank. This meeting is open to the public and will cover important topics, including a public review of the proposed county budget for 2025. Each department will present their monthly reports along with a year-end review of achievements and challenges. The meeting will also include the appointment of a new board of elections, as required by state law. Residents can review the proposed budget at several locations, such as the Chattooga County Courthouse, the Courthouse Annex, the Chattooga County Library, and the Commissioner’s office. The budget will also be available online at chattoogacounty.gov. All residents are encouraged to attend and participate.  The public meeting will be the last one for outgoing Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Blake Elsberry.  Commissioner-Elect Andy Allen will take office on January 1, 2025.

On Monday, December 9th, educators in the Chattooga County School system met for a Teacher Professional Learning Day (PL Day) that included a conference-style workshop aimed at improving teaching practices and resources.

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The Summerville City Council is looking into selling four small land parcels owned by the city, which resulted from previous “clean and lien” actions.

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