Habitat for Humanity to Host Orientation Meeting for Prospective Homeowners in Chattooga County

  • February 4 at 10:00 a.m. — Community Resource Center of Chattooga, 50 Eleanor Ave., Summerville

Habitat for Humanity is inviting residents to learn more about the opportunity to become a homeowner through an upcoming Habitat for Humanity Orientation Meeting focused on families in Chattooga County. The meeting will explain how eligible families can receive a brand-new home through sweat equity and a very low mortgage payment.

Organizers say the program is designed for first-time homeowners who have lived in Chattooga County for at least one year, have sustainable income, and are willing to contribute sweat equity by helping build their home and others in the community. The orientation is open to renters and families who are interested in owning a safe, affordable home and want to learn more about the application process and requirements.

Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley serves Floyd, Chattooga, and Polk Counties in Northwest Georgia, working to expand access to safe, decent, and affordable housing across the region. Community members who think they may qualify are encouraged to attend and find out more information.

 

LaFayette Man Sentenced to 65 Years After Conviction on Child Molestation and Privacy Charges

A Walker County jury has convicted Michael Forker, a 74-year-old man from LaFayette, on charges of Child Molestation, Sexual Exploitation of Children, and five counts of Invasion of Privacy. Following the verdict on December 3, 2025, Forker was sentenced by Lookout Mountain Superior Court Chief Judge Brian House to 65 years in prison, with 58 years to be served in the Georgia Department of Corrections.

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Armuchee Man Arrested on Felony Theft by Conversion Warrant

An Armuchee man has been arrested on a felony warrant charging him with theft by conversion.

According to the warrant, 41-year-old Timothy Jacob Morgan allegedly took a woman’s 2010 Subaru Legacy on June 4 under the promise he would perform mechanic work for $300. The warrant says Morgan was paid a total of $1,143 for parts and services, but by November he stopped responding to the woman’s requests to get her vehicle back.

Authorities say the vehicle was moved from Morgan’s shop to an unknown location sometime between November and January.

State Senator Raises Concerns Over Data Center Incentives in Georgia

State Senator Chuck Hufstetler, a Republican from Rome, says lawmakers are taking a closer look at the rapid growth of data centers across Georgia, calling it one of the most pressing economic and infrastructure issues facing the state.

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Siemens Energy Announces $1 Billion U.S. Investment, Expands Fort Payne Operations

Siemens Energy announced Tuesday that it will invest $1 billion in its operations across the United States, including a major expansion at its facility in Fort Payne, Alabama. The investment is aimed at increasing manufacturing capacity to meet growing demand for power generation and electrical grid equipment.

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Trion City Schools Seeking Social Worker to Support Student Mental Health and Family Engagement

Trion City Schools is accepting applications for a School Social Worker to support student mental health, attendance, safety, and family engagement across the district. School officials say the position plays a critical role in providing counseling services, coordinating support plans, and connecting students and families with community resources.

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Arrest Report – Tuesday – February 3, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, February 3, 2026:

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Warm Tuesday Gives Way to Rain, Then a Cold Snap in Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia

Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia will enjoy unseasonably warm temperatures today ahead of an approaching cold front that will bring widespread light rain to the region later this evening through Wednesday.

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Chattooga Public Library Announces 2026 Royal Ball Dates, Tickets On Sale February 3

The Chattooga Public Library has announced its annual Royal Ball, set for March 14th, 20th, and 21st, 2026, with festivities beginning at 5:30 PM each evening. Families are invited to “join the princesses” for food, fun, and dancing.

Tickets go on sale February 3rd during library hours and cost $10, with each ticket admitting one child and one adult. For more information, contact the library at 706-857-2553—and organizers note that no tickets will be sold or reserved by phone.

Chattooga County Animal Shelter Launches “Adopt a Kennel” Sponsorship Program

The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is inviting the community to help support local dogs through a new “Adopt a Kennel” sponsorship program. The program is open to businesses, individuals, classrooms, families, and anyone who wants to help, offering a direct way to support the shelter and the animals in its care.

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