Children ages 6 to 12 will have the opportunity to explore the outdoors and learn valuable nature skills this summer during Junior Ranger Camp at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park.
Nature lovers will have an opportunity to explore the outdoors after dark during a special bat-themed hike at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park on Friday, June 6.
The “Into the Dark: Bat Hike” program will begin at 8:30 p.m. and take participants on a guided nighttime trek to the Marble Mine while learning about one of Northwest Georgia’s most misunderstood creatures.
Park rangers will discuss the important role bats play in the environment, including what they eat, how they help control insect populations, and the unique adaptations that allow them to thrive at night.
Participants are encouraged to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes. The group will meet in front of the park office before the hike begins.
The cost is $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is required.
Those interested in attending should register in advance by contacting the park office at 706-857-0826.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is located in Chattooga County and offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year, including hiking, fishing, camping, and educational programs.
Residents looking for fresh produce and locally made goods can mark their calendars for next Thursday, June 4th, as the Trion Farmers Market kicks off its new season.
The market will open at 8 AM and will be held each Thursday from 8 AM until noon at the pavilion near the Trion Track Field.
Shoppers can find fresh produce, jams, jellies, relishes, salsa, and other locally made items throughout the season.
Local producers who would like to participate are welcome to come set up at the Trion Farmers Market.
Families looking for a fun summer activity can take part in a Family Bingo event next month at the Chattooga Library in Summerville.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Chattooga Library located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
According to organizers with the Sara Hightower Regional Library System, the activity is designed for all ages and participants will have the opportunity to compete for prizes during the evening.
The event is open to the public, and organizers say families, children, and community members are encouraged to attend.
For more information, contact the Chattooga Library at 706-857-2553.
Chattooga County Extension Agent Rebecca Thomas says there are still spots available for several upcoming food preservation workshops being offered through the Chattooga County Extension Office.
The hands-on classes will cover a variety of food preservation topics throughout the summer and early fall, including jams and jellies, canning tomatoes and salsa, cowboy candy, and pickled okra.
Each workshop costs $25 per class, and attendance is limited to 15 participants. Officials say payment is required to secure registration.
Upcoming workshop dates include:
- Jams & Jellies — June 2 from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.
- Canning Tomatoes & Salsa — July 1 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
- Cowboy Candy — August 4 from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.
- Pickled Okra — September 24 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m.
All workshops will be held at the Chattooga County Extension Office located at 40 Middle School Road in Summerville.
For registration information, call 706-857-0744.
The City of Menlo is preparing for a full day of Independence Day festivities on Saturday, July 4th, with a community celebration and parade planned for residents and visitors.
According to information released by the city, activities will take place from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., with the annual Fourth of July parade scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.
Organizers say the celebration will include vendors, inflatables, and additional family-friendly activities throughout the day.
Community members are encouraged to come out and enjoy the holiday celebration while supporting local vendors and taking part in one of Menlo’s longtime Independence Day traditions.
Additional event details are expected to be announced as the holiday approaches.
The Sara Hightower Regional Library System is gearing up for its 2026 Summer Reading Program, themed “Unearth A Story,” with activities planned across Northwest Georgia — including special events at the Chattooga and Trion libraries.
The Chattooga High School Marching Band is holding a Sportsman Raffle fundraiser featuring outdoor gear, fishing equipment, and a guided fishing trip on Weiss Lake.
The raffle package includes a YETI Roadie 24 cooler, a guided fishing trip for two on Weiss Lake through Whaley & Son Guide Service, a fishing rod and reel combo, a Snackle Box, and a pack of Gatorade.
Tickets are $25 each or five tickets for $100, with only 200 tickets available.
The drawing is scheduled for May 30, 2026.
Supporters interested in purchasing tickets or helping support the CHS Marching Band are encouraged to contact band representatives for more information.
Organizers are gearing up for the annual Back to School Bash for Trion and Chattooga students, with plans to make this year’s event even bigger for local families.
The event is scheduled for July 16, 2026, from 4 until 6 p.m. and will include music, free back-to-school haircuts, shaved ice treats, community resources, and school-year support for students.
Organizers are currently accepting school supply donations, monetary donations, and community partners or vendors who would like to set up and share resources with families.
Anyone interested in donating or getting involved can contact Maisha Ludy at 706-388-9849 or email maishaludy@gmail.com.
Organizers say the goal is to bring the community together to support students and families as they prepare for a new school year.