AAA – The Auto Club Group projects a staggering 1.38 million Georgians will travel 50 miles or more from home this Memorial Day weekend, a significant increase of nearly 45,000 compared to last year’s figures. Nationwide, the numbers are even more impressive.
With an active hurricane season predicted and wildfires posing a threat to parts of the Southeast, the American Red Cross is urging the public to download its Emergency App to stay informed and prepared. According to Patti Duckworth, Executive Director of the Northeast Georgia chapter, now is the crucial time to take proactive steps. “Preparation is key, and the Emergency App provides essential information and resources to help individuals and families navigate any type of disaster,” Duckworth stated. The free app can be downloaded at www.redcross.org/apps or through the Apple App Store and Google Play. It offers real-time alerts, safety tips, shelter locations, and other vital resources during emergencies. Beyond encouraging preparedness, the Red Cross is actively seeking volunteers to support its disaster relief efforts, service to armed forces, biomedical services, and other vital programs. Duckworth emphasized that comprehensive training is provided to all willing volunteers. In related news, Duckworth, who has served as the interim leader for the Northwest Georgia chapter for the past couple of months, will be departing from that role. The chapter is set to welcome Tina Dean, a long-time Red Cross employee, as its new Executive Director on May 27th.
A 52-year-old Armuchee man, Billy Kenneth Stockton, was arrested this week following reports of inappropriate online communications with an individual he believed to be under the age of 16. According to police reports, Stockton allegedly sent numerous nude photographs to the victim and solicited nude photos in return. Authorities also allege that Stockton described specific sexual acts he wished to perform with the child. In addition to the online exploitation charges, police also cited Stockton for having excessive window tint on his vehicle, exceeding the legal limit. Stockton now faces a multitude of charges including sexual exploitation of a child, obscene internet contact with a child, use of a computer to solicit a child to commit an illegal act, and three counts of electronically furnishing obscene materials to a child.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed a series of bills into law on Monday, marking a significant step towards bolstering Georgia’s workforce and expanding educational opportunities for students across the state. The package of legislation aims to connect students with higher education, prepare them for high-demand careers, and provide crucial financial support.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, May 13, 2025:
Residents across Northwest Georgia can expect some sunshine today, but the threat of rain and thunderstorms remains present. According to local weather reports, there’s a 60% chance of precipitation, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms developing into showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 3 PM. The day will be partly sunny with a high near 76 degrees. While the wind will be calm initially, it’s expected to shift southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. The potential for isolated thunderstorms continues into tonight, with a slight risk of storms producing strong winds. Looking ahead, Wednesday will also see isolated thunderstorms, some of which could bring strong winds or hail. The evening will be partly cloudy with a low around 63 degrees. Thursday promises mostly sunny skies with a high near 87 degrees . Winds will be from the southwest at 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph. Thursday night will be mostly cloudy with a low around 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The forecast for Friday includes a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 PM, with mostly cloudy conditions and a high near 87 degrees. The chance of showers and thunderstorms increases to 50 percent on Friday night, mainly after 8 PM. Saturday brings a continuing chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 2 PM. The day will be partly sunny with a high near 86 degrees and a 50% chance of precipitation. Residents are advised to stay informed of weather updates and take necessary precautions in the event of severe weather.
Aspiring cheerleaders ages 3-13 are invited to join the Chattooga High School Cheerleading squad for a fun and engaging Tiny Tribe Cheerleading Camp, to be held July 10th and 11th at the Chattooga High School Gymnasium. The camp will run from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM each day, offering participants the chance to learn cheers, chants, and basic cheerleading skills from the experienced Chattooga High cheerleaders. Registration is open now and will continue until June 19th. The registration fee is $45 per child, with a $5 discount offered for siblings. The fee covers a camp t-shirt, lunch, and beverages for each participant. Parents can register their children by visiting the Chattooga High Cheerleading Facebook page HERE or use the QR code above.
Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton is reminding the public that her office will be closed today through Thursday. The office normally open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:30 AM until 5:30 PM, but is closed today and Thursday due to employee training. Hampton says her staff will be attending training to learn about new laws regarding titles, license plates and property taxes. The tag office will reopen on Friday morning at 7:30 AM with normal hours.
The City of Summerville is preparing for the return of the Summerville Main Street Ducky Derby this Saturday, May 17th, from 10 AM until 2 PM, and is putting out the call to all Jeep owners to come for a Jeep cruise-in. Taking place outside the historic Summerville Depot, the Ducky Derby promises a day filled with activities, food vendors, and a thrilling race down Summerville Town Creek. But that’s not all! This year’s event also features an Invitational Jeep Cruise-In, adding even more excitement to the downtown atmosphere. Jeep owners are especially encouraged to participate in the Cruise-In, where a designated section of East Washington Street will be blocked off exclusively for Jeeps. Participants will receive a special edition duck, courtesy of GP Federal Credit Union, while supplies last. The highlight of the day, the Ducky Derby race, is set to begin at 1 PM. Don’t miss your chance to win big! Adopt a rubber duck for a small fee and you could win the Grand Prize of $500 if your duck crosses the finish line first. Second place will receive $250, and third place will be awarded $100. With food, crafts, kids’ activities, and the exciting duck race, the Summerville Main Street Ducky Derby is the perfect way to spend your Saturday.
The Town of Trion is giving residents a few more days to spiff up their properties! The Spring Clean event has been extended through Saturday, offering residents a valuable opportunity to de-clutter and beautify their homes. The town is providing a convenient and free dumpster located at the Trion Town Hall, allowing residents to dispose of unwanted items without any cost. This initiative is designed to encourage residents to enhance their curb appeal and ensure compliance with city ordinances. “This is a great opportunity for our residents to freshen up their properties after the winter,” said Trion Mayor Lanny Thomas, emphasizing the benefits of the extended cleanup period. This Spring Cleanup event serves as a precursor to increased enforcement of town code violations. Town officials are reminding residents that after the event concludes, properties will be diligently inspected and any outstanding code violations will be addressed. Participating in the Spring Clean now provides a chance to rectify any issues and avoid potential fines or penalties. Residents are urged to take advantage of the free dumpster located at Town Hall, available now through this Saturday, to dispose of unwanted items and ensure their property is compliant with town regulations. Don’t miss this chance to give your property a fresh start!
