A Centre, Alabama woman has been arrested and charged with arson and insurance fraud following an investigation into a fire and subsequent burglary at her residence in the Bomar Community. Mary Ann Studdard, 51, was taken into custody earlier this week after investigators uncovered inconsistencies in her account of events. The initial fire, which caused partial damage to the home, was initially believed to be accidental. However, the following day, a deputy from the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a burglary at the same residence. Sheriff Jeff Shaver stated that due to the suspicious circumstances, the deputy requested the assistance of Sheriff’s Office investigators. The State Fire Marshal’s Office also responded to the scene to collect forensic evidence. As investigators continued their work, they identified several inconsistencies in the homeowner’s account of events, according to Sheriff Shaver. Following further investigation, Mary Ann Studdard was arrested and charged with Arson in the 2nd Degree and Insurance Fraud in the 1st Degree. The investigation remains ongoing, and further details are expected to be released as they become available.

In this Shorter University photo: Shorter University recently received a grant from the Georgia Baptist Health Care Ministry Foundation. Pictured from left to right: Rev. Thomas Hammond, Executive Director, Georgia Baptist Mission Board; Dr. Don Dowless, President, Shorter University; Rev. Larry Wynn, Executive Director, Georgia Baptist Health Care Ministry Foundation, Inc.; and Mr. John Howard, Board Chair, Georgia Baptist Health Care Ministry Foundation, Inc.

Shorter University is pleased to receive a generous grant from the Georgia Baptist Health Care Ministry Foundation. This foundation supports health care initiatives by providing financial assistance to organizations across Georgia. In 2025, it awarded nearly $9 million to 87 organizations, benefiting over 5 million lives in the past 19 years. Dr. Don Dowless, the President of Shorter University, accepted the grant at the foundation’s Grant Distribution Luncheon. This year’s funds will support the nursing program, and additional money will go towards nursing student scholarships, continuing the positive impact of the foundation on the University. Dr. Dowless expressed gratitude for the grant, highlighting its importance in helping the University fulfill its mission and enhance its nursing program.

Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley recently broke ground on its 61^st home build and seeks volunteers to help with construction.  The Coosa Valley Chapter of Habitat for Humanity serves Chattooga, Floyd and Polk Counties.

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A Summerville man is facing charges in connection with a series of car part thefts in the Armuchee area dating back to February 2022. Jacob Eric Reynolds, 27, was arrested and charged with multiple counts of theft related to the alleged removal of catalytic converters from vehicles. According to arrest warrants, Reynolds is accused of stealing two catalytic converters, valued at approximately $2,000, from a vehicle located on Selman Road. He is also accused of taking catalytic converters from vehicles on Martha Berry Highway, with those converters valued at $700 and $500 respectively. Reynolds faces charges that include felony and misdemeanor counts of theft by taking parts from a motor vehicle. The investigation is ongoing, and further charges may be pending. He is currently being held at the Floyd County Jail.

AgGeorgia Farm Credit is investing in the future of local agriculture by offering a $10,000 grant in 2025 to help farmers markets across its 79-county territory promote their vital community hubs. The grant aims to empower markets to reach a wider audience and support the hard-working farmers who contribute to the region’s rich agricultural landscape. To be eligible for the grant, farmers markets must operate within AgGeorgia Farm Credit’s designated 79-county area, maintain operations for at least eight days during a two-month period, and host a minimum of five vendors. Crucially, at least 50% of those vendors must be selling agricultural products. “Farmers markets are a cornerstone of our local economies and provide crucial access to fresh, healthy food for communities across Georgia,” said a representative from AgGeorgia Farm Credit. “We are proud to support these markets and the farmers who make them thrive.” Interested markets are encouraged to apply online by March 15, 2025. The application requires a detailed plan outlining how the grant funds will be utilized to promote the market and how the AgGeorgia logo and/or AgGeorgia Farm Credit name will be incorporated into their promotional efforts. Last year’s grant recipient was the LaFayette Farmers Market in Walker County, showcasing the positive impact this funding can have on local communities. AgGeorgia Farm Credit hopes that this year’s grant will continue to bolster the success and sustainability of farmers markets across its service area.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, February 27, 2025:

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Northwest Georgia will be experiencing increased cloud cover today as a frontal boundary approaches from the north. According to current satellite loops, the leading edge of the front is expected to move into Northwest Georgia around daybreak, bringing with it the possibility of scattered, light showers – but they will not be widespread. While the front is not expected to produce significant rainfall or thunderstorms due to a lack of moisture and instability, residents should anticipate gusty winds throughout the day.

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The Chattooga Chamber of Commerce is preparing for a busy March, labeled “March 2025 Madness,” filled with events for members to connect, grow, and learn.

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A Chattooga County family is picking up the pieces after a devastating house fire ripped through their home on Mountain View Road this past weekend. Tracy and Teresa Barksdale, along with their two children, are now displaced after the blaze erupted around 4:30 AM on Sunday morning. Multiple fire departments, including Trion, Summerville, and Hays Correctional, responded to the scene, along with Atrium Health Floyd EMS and the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office. Upon arrival, first responders encountered heavy fire and smoke pouring from the front of the residence. Firefighters acted swiftly, launching a fire attack team and successfully bringing the blaze under control. The Barksdale family suffered a total loss of their home and belongings. In the wake of this tragedy, the Chattooga County community is stepping up to support the Barksdale family. A donation account has been established at United Community Bank to assist the family in rebuilding their lives. Anyone wishing to contribute to their recovery is encouraged to donate at United Community Bank in Summerville or Trion.