Here are the latest health inspection scores from the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the last half of March, 2025:

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April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, which highlights the serious issue of distracted driving in the U. S. Cell phone use, including texting, talking, and social media, is one of the main causes of this distraction. Distracted driving resulted in 3,308 deaths in 2022, making it a major concern. Other distractions include adjusting radios, using GPS, and eating. From April 7th to 14th, police will be more active in enforcing the “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign to raise awareness of the risks and penalties of texting while driving. Authorities suggest pulling over to text, designating a passenger for calls, and keeping phones out of reach. Communities are encouraged to promote safe driving and share pledges on social media to help reduce accidents.

Rising temperatures across Georgia are causing increased snake activity, prompting a surge of inquiries to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources regarding identification and safe encounter practices.

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Residents battling seasonal allergies in Northwest Georgia experienced a short-lived respite thanks to recent rainfall, but allergy experts warn the season is far from over. Tree pollen counts are expected to remain elevated throughout the month of April, continuing to plague sufferers. Over the past few days, pollen levels have soared, creating challenging conditions for those with allergies. The primary culprits are trees such as pine, mulberry, and willow, contributing to common symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, particularly on windy days. Georgia’s allergy season typically kicks off in late February and can linger until May or June. As April progresses, the situation is expected to worsen with the anticipated increase in grass pollen levels. Health professionals advise proactive management of allergy symptoms. Their recommendations include closely monitoring pollen counts, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollen hours, and utilizing appropriate medications as needed. Being proactive is key to managing your allergy symptoms effectively. By staying informed and taking preventative measures, you can better enjoy the spring season despite the high pollen counts. Residents are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized allergy management plan.

Georgia lawmakers have voted down a proposal to increase the salaries of top elected officials, including Governor Brian Kemp, dealing a blow to advocates who argued the raises were necessary to attract and retain qualified individuals in public service. The House of Representatives rejected amendments passed by the Senate that would have significantly increased Governor Kemp’s salary. The proposed amendment sought to raise Kemp’s current $182,000 salary by 37%, bringing it to $250,000 annually. If approved, this would have made Kemp one of the highest-paid governors in the nation, tied with New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The decision reflects concerns about fiscal responsibility and the timing of such increases. Legislators also voted against proposed pay raises for state legislators and other top-ranking elected officials. The failed measure leaves the current salary structure in place, prompting renewed debate about compensation levels for public servants in Georgia.

GNN / WSB