Georgia’s political landscape is once again grappling with the contentious issue of legalized gambling. As Republican leaders openly advocate for family values, they are at the same time, teaming up with a growing alliance of sportsbooks, including industry giants FanDuel and DraftKings, who are making renewed efforts to legalize sports betting in the Peach State. This push comes on the heels of a recent poll indicating widespread public support for the measure, which is already a reality in 39 other states.

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Jamie Abrams, the head football coach of the Cedartown Bulldogs, is no longer with the team after leading them to significant success over nearly five years. He was informed of his reassignment within the Polk School District and expressed surprise and frustration over the decision. Under Abrams, the Bulldogs achieved a record of 50-12, winning three region championships and becoming state runners-up in 2022. Although disappointed, he looks forward to his new role as a physical education teacher at Youngs Grove Elementary, where he hopes to maintain relationships with the community and youth players. The school is now seeking a new head coach to replace him.

The Chattooga County Board of Education invites community members to participate in three upcoming public hearings to discuss the decision to opt out of House Bill 581 (HB 581), a statewide floating homestead exemption. The hearings will allow residents to share their perspectives on this significant decision, which impacts the future funding of Chattooga County Schools.

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Trion Fire Department’s Fire Chief Justin Lowe has completed the Insurance Services Office (ISO) Fire Suppression Rating Schedule Overview Course at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.

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On Tuesday, Rome City Police and Rome City Schools looked into a possible threat on social media, leading to the detention of a Rome Middle School student for further investigation. The safety of students and staff is the top priority.

Police Chief Denise Downer-McKinney emphasized the seriousness of threats to schools, stating there is a no-tolerance policy for violence or harm. People should report any threats by calling 9-1-1, the Anonymous Crime Tip Line, or the Rome Police Department.

Parents are urged to monitor their child’s social media activities for safety.

The spirit of unity and service will be the theme on January 19 as the community comes together to celebrate the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr here in Chattooga County.

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On February 22, 2025, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources will host a “Learn & Burn Workshop” aimed at educating local landowners on the benefits and techniques of prescribed fire. From 8 AM to 4 PM, participants will gain valuable hands-on experience while learning from local experts about safely incorporating fire back into their land management practices.

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After an initial delay due to winter weather over the past weekend, the Chattooga County Emergency Management Agency/911 (EMA) will install a tornado siren at the Teloga Volunteer Fire Department on Highway 337 on Thursday, January 16, 2025. This addition is important for improving emergency preparedness in the community. Crews are expected to arrive before 8 a. m. to start the installation, followed by testing of the siren later that afternoon to ensure it works properly. Pamela M. Vaughn, Director of Chattooga County EMA, and Teloga Fire Chief Andy Rowe, highlighted the importance of such systems for timely alerts during severe weather. If bad weather delays the installation, officials will inform the public about rescheduling. Once installed, the siren will be tested monthly on the first Wednesday at noon, and if the weather is not suitable, testing will occur the following Wednesday. Residents are encouraged to watch for updates on the installation and testing schedule. For more information, contact the Chattooga County EMA/E911 office at 706-857-3400 or email chattoogaema@gmail.com.

Chattooga High School invites all rising freshmen, along with their parents and guardians, to the Rising Freshman Night on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the cafeteria. This event will provide information about the opportunities and resources available to students as they begin high school. It aims to help students and families prepare for the transition, with details on academic programs, extracurricular activities, and school policies being shared. Parents and guardians can sign up for individual advisement appointments during the event, scheduled for January 21, 22, and 23, from 3:45 PM to 6 PM. These sessions will help create students’ schedules for the upcoming year, ensuring they are placed in suitable courses. Chattooga High School looks forward to supporting each child’s educational journey and encourages participation in this important evening. For more information, visit the school website or contact the school directly.

On Monday, Governor Brian P. Kemp, along with Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Speaker Jon Burns, and members of the Georgia General Assembly, announced a legislative plan to improve K-12 education and strengthen classrooms in Georgia. This package includes funding from the AFY’25 and FY’26 budgets, ensuring full funding for K-12 formula earnings, increasing school safety grants, and enhancing mental health support and crisis counseling. It also includes additional funds for technical education and transportation and aims to improve teacher benefits while modernizing school facilities.

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