Yesterday, the Chattooga County Board of Assessors informed residents that it has contracted Georgia Mass Appraisal Solutions & Services (GMASS) to assist with essential fieldwork. The decision comes as the Board grapples with challenges in hiring and retaining a full staff of qualified appraisers. GMASS is a well-respected organization known for its highly trained employees and has been successfully employed by several counties across Georgia, including Dade, Floyd, Walker, and Whitfield. Their expertise aims to ensure accurate property assessments, which are vital for local tax purposes and community planning. Residents can expect to see GMASS vehicles marked with their logo as they conduct assessments throughout Chattooga County. Additionally, all appraisers from GMASS will carry identification badges that include their names, the Chattooga County emblem, and the contact number for the Assessors Office, ensuring transparency and security for residents. Should residents have any questions or concerns regarding the appraisal process or the presence of GMASS employees in the area, they are encouraged to reach out directly to the Chattooga County Assessors Office at 706-857-0737. Nancy Edgeman, Chief Appraiser for the Chattooga County Assessors Office, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration in maintaining the integrity of property assessments.

The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture  has reached its initial goal of $1 million for Hurricane Relief, but with damages estimated at $6. 46 billion, more help is needed. They are now striving to raise $1. 5 million to assist farmers impacted by Hurricane Helene. All funds raised will go directly to farmers for recovery efforts. Farmer applications will open in November, with funds expected to be distributed between January and February 2025. To make a difference, you can donate, share, or host a fundraiser. Visit https://www. supportgeorgiafarmers.org/ for more information and to contribute. By supporting this cause, you can support Georgia farmers in rebuilding and thriving.

Each November, communities across the nation come together to observe Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and this year, the Northwest Georgia Regional Cancer Coalition is leading the charge to elevate awareness about this critical health issue.

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The Georgia Supreme Court has suspended the law license of former state Court of Appeals judge and former state representative Christian Coomer for two years. The suspension will end in August of the following year. Coomer was removed from the Court of Appeals by the Supreme Court due to the state Judicial Qualifications Commission’s recommendation, citing misuse of campaign funds and inappropriate dealings with a client before becoming a judge.

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Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, November 20, 2024

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The Trion Bulldogs are headed for the second round of GHSA Playoffs this Friday.  They will be making the nearly 4-hour drive to take on Telfair County after defeating Schley County last Friday night.  Dr. Phil Williams, Superintendent of Trion City Schools announced on Tuesday that school will be canceled this Friday, November 22, 2024.  Dr. Williams said that 29 teachers and coaches will be on the road on Friday, and the school system cannot secure enough substitute teachers.  WZQZ will have the broadcast of the Trion vs. Telfair County game coming up on Friday evening.  Good luck to the Trion Bulldogs.

A 46-year-old man, identified as Bhaveshikumar Dhanis Patel, was arrested on November 9th following a dangerous high-speed chase that ended with multiple charges, including DUI and reckless driving.

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AdventHealth Medical Group is pleased to announce that Lauren Rader, ACNPC-AG, CPAN, RNFA, has joined AdventHealth Medical Group Neurosurgery at Rome. Rader joins John A. Cowan, Jr., MD, FAANS; Jason Harrison, MD, PhD, FAANS; Alex Whitaker-Lea, MD; Daniel Webb, MD, and the care team at AdventHealth Medical Group Neurosurgery at Rome, which offers a wide range of medical services for its patients. The clinicians provide comprehensive services that help patients with conditions that affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

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A legislative study committee recently recommended that the state actively promote sustainable aviation fuel and mass timber construction to help the struggling timber industry in Georgia. Despite being the top state for forestry in the country, the industry is facing challenges due to shrinking demand and oversupply. Sustainable aviation fuel, which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly, is seen as a promising market for the industry. The European Union has mandated the use of SAF in commercial aircraft by 2030. The committee also recommended supporting a Georgia-based research facility to develop innovative forestry markets, including SAF. Additionally, the use of mass timber in construction as an alternative to concrete and steel was suggested. The report also calls for a study to promote the pulp-and-paper industry and identify burdensome regulations hurting the timber industry. The recommendations will be considered by the full Senate in 2025.

An off-duty Summerville Police officer noticed suspicious activity that led to a drug arrest last week in the parking lot of the Fit Pit gym. Officer Ty Hutchins observed a white female driver and a male passenger acting suspiciously in a white Toyota sedan. Officer Pledger joined Hutchins and saw John Reid, known for drug offenses, get into the vehicle, which drove off and was stopped by a Chattooga County Sheriff’s Deputy. Inside were Lisa Barker, John Reid, and Teresa Reid. A search found methamphetamine in the car, with John initially claiming ownership but Teresa admitting it was hers. Lisa Barker, showing signs of drug impairment, failed sobriety tests and was arrested for driving under the influence. She consented to a blood test but faced difficulties due to dehydration during the process. All three individuals now face charges in connection with drug possession and distribution.