The Georgia Lottery continues to be a powerhouse for education funding in the state, consistently delivering record-breaking profits year after year. In fiscal year 2023 alone, the lottery generated over $1.5 billion for Georgia’s schools, pushing its total contribution to education since inception to a staggering $26.8 billion. For eight consecutive years, the Georgia Lottery has surpassed the $1 billion mark in annual profits dedicated to education, solidifying its position as a vital funding source for key programs.
Georgia drivers are paying a hefty price for minimum car insurance coverage, exceeding the national average by a significant margin, according to a recent report by WZQZ News. (See related article from WZQZ) While full coverage in the state is only marginally more expensive than the national average (4%), minimum liability rates are a staggering 16% higher. This discrepancy is partially attributed to the state’s higher accident rate.
Drivers in the United States are being cautioned about a new wave of deceptive text messages aimed at stealing personal and financial information, as reported by various Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMVs). These fraudulent texts, known as “smishing” (SMS phishing), falsely assert that individuals have unpaid fees linked to traffic violations. The messages often threaten serious repercussions, such as large fines and possible suspension of driving privileges, if recipients do not quickly provide requested information. Authorities stress that these texts are not from real DMV offices or government agencies.
The City of Summerville is seeking sealed proposals for its 2025 Information Technology Services contract, covering the period from August 1, 2025, through July 31, 2026.
Northwest Georgia residents should get ready for more scattered thunderstorms this afternoon and into the night. The National Weather Service warns that some of these storms could be strong to severe, with strong winds, small hail, and heavy rain possible.
While earlier showers are leaving the area, meteorologists are monitoring a new wave of rain coming in this afternoon. A high-pressure system in Northeast Georgia is causing Cold Air Damming (CAD), which brings cooler air that is affecting northeastern Atlanta suburbs. This cooler air may help reduce widespread storm development, but areas south and west of the wedge might still see an increase in severe storms. The severity of the CAD wedge remains uncertain, but the highest risk for severe weather is in west-central and central Georgia.
Today’s forecast includes showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4 PM, with a high near 77 degrees and an 80% chance of rain.
Tonight, showers and possibly a thunderstorm are expected, mainly before 10 PM, with a low around 63 degrees. There is an 80% chance of rain.
Wednesday, showers and thunderstorms are forecast before 8 AM and again after 11 AM, with a high of about 82 degrees and a 40% chance of precipitation.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, May 27, 2025:
A 43-year-old Summerville, Georgia man was arrested on DUI charges in Floyd County over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. Curtis Logan Floener of Summerville, was apprehended by the Georgia State Patrol on Friday evening, at Riverside Parkway and Riverside Industrial. According to Floyd County Jail records, Floener was charged with Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (40-6-391(A)(1)) and a Safety Belt Violation (40-8-76.1). The Georgia State Patrol made the arrest. Floener was subsequently booked into the Floyd County Jail and has since bonded out.
Georgians who enjoy outdoor recreation faced a confusing week after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initially announced the temporary closure of over 20 parks, beaches, and boat docks last week. The announcement, citing critical staffing shortages, sparked immediate backlash and political intervention, leading to a revised list with significantly fewer closures.
Chattooga County 4-H is offering an overnight camping experience for students aged 11-17. The “Into the Wild” Summer Camp will be on Friday, July 11th, and Saturday, July 12th at Sloppy Floyd State Park Pioneer Camp. For $20 per child, participants will learn survival skills, take a guided hiking tour, identify plants, and cook outdoors. Campers will also enjoy fishing, a bonfire with songs, and crafts. Parents can drop off their children at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 11th and pick them up at 9:00 AM on Saturday, July 12th. Spots are limited, so register today! Sign up at the Chattooga County Extension Office or call 706-857-0744 for more information.
The Port of Savannah continues to defy expectations, reporting record-breaking container cargo volumes driven by businesses rushing to beat potential tariffs. According to the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA), the port processed an impressive 515,500 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in April, marking a significant 17% increase compared to April 2024. This milestone represents the third consecutive month of record highs for the bustling port. The surge in activity comes amidst a backdrop of fluctuating trade policies.