This summer, the city of Rome will serve as the starting point for the highly anticipated Bicycle Ride Across Georgia, affectionately known as Big BRAG. On May 31st, cyclists from across the state and beyond will converge at the Forum River Center for an overnight stay, kicking off a week-long journey averaging 55 miles per day. Local officials are preparing for a significant influx of riders and supporters. Chris Fincher of Floyd County Emergency Management highlighted the excitement surrounding the event after attending a recent planning meeting. “There is going to be a big sendoff,” Fincher said. “They’ve got a large archway that they are going to take off from, and that night before they are going to have a lot of things in town to kind of welcome the riders to Rome. BRAG brings with it a large contingent of really knowledgeable planners. They’ve done this before, and they know what to prepare for with shower trailers and things like that. BRAG has turned into a really big thing.” The cyclists will embark on their statewide adventure from Rome, heading towards Cartersville, Jasper, Dawsonville, Clarkesville, and Toccoa. The epic journey concludes on June 7th in Hartwell, Georgia. For more information about Big BRAG, including registration details and the full route, visit brag.org.
Smith Iron Works, a leading steel fabrication and erection company, has made a significant investment in advanced robotic equipment, signaling a bold move to stay ahead in a competitive market. The investment reinforces the company’s long-standing commitment to innovation and delivering superior quality steel structures. Recently, Blake Weaver, Chief Operating Officer of Smith Iron Works, welcomed Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen and Spencer Hogg of the Northwest Georgia Development Authority for a behind-the-scenes tour of the company’s expanded facility and its cutting-edge robotic systems. “We are proud to showcase our latest investment in robotic technology,” stated Weaver. “This expansion not only enhances our production capabilities but also reinforces our dedication to delivering unparalleled quality and precision to our valued clients.” Commissioner Allen lauded the company’s forward-thinking approach. “This investment in cutting-edge technology is a game-changer for Smith Iron Works and for Chattooga County. It’s truly inspiring to witness a local business leading the way in innovation while simultaneously creating opportunities for growth and development within our community.” Founded over 30 years ago by Eddie Smith, Smith Iron Works continues to build upon its strong foundation, upholding the family core values instilled since its inception. By integrating advanced robotics with their extensive expertise in steel fabrication and building erection, Smith Iron Works is setting a new standard for innovation and quality within the steel industry, securing its position as a trusted partner for projects throughout the Southeast.
A fire on Chamberlain Road in southern Walker County destroyed the home of Kristy Colbert, a teacher at Summerville Middle School who runs a wildlife sanctuary called Possumbilities.
Residents of Northwest Georgia are in for a wild weather ride, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Peachtree City. The region is set to experience record or near-record high temperatures through the weekend, followed by a dramatic shift towards potential frost and freeze warnings early next week.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, April 3, 2025:
The Chattooga County housing market has undergone a significant shift, moving from a seller’s market last year to a buyer’s market in February 2025, according to the latest housing market report. This transition indicates that home prices are trending lower, and properties are staying on the market for longer periods, giving buyers more negotiating power. The report reveals that the median sold price for homes in Chattooga County in February 2025 was $203,666, with a median price per square foot of $142. While this represents a 7.2% increase compared to February 2024, when the market was a seller’s market, the overall conditions now favor buyers. The shift to a buyer’s market in Chattooga County offers a great opportunity for those looking to purchase a home according to market analysts. With prices stabilizing and more inventory available, buyers have more leverage and can potentially find better deals. The $203,666 median sold price reflects data from all homes sold in the past 12 months. This shift signals a potentially opportune time for individuals and families looking to invest in the Chattooga County housing market.
Get ready to tee off! Prodigy Events and Trion will be hosting the “Trion to Ace IV” PDGA-sanctioned C-Tier disc golf tournament on May 3, 2025, hosted by the Trion Recreation Department. This two-round, shotgun-start event will challenge players on a 12-hole course with a par of 3, totaling 250 feet. The tournament promises a day of friendly competition and beautiful scenery. Entry fee is $45 per player, which includes a player’s pack featuring two custom-stamped Prodigy discs. Awards will be presented following the completion of the second round. The event offers on-site parking and bathroom facilities. Lunch will be available for purchase from the Trion Recreation Department. Disc golf enthusiasts are encouraged to register now through Disc Golf Scene at dgscene.com/TrionIV. Don’t miss this opportunity to compete in a sanctioned event and showcase your disc golf skills. For any questions regarding the “Trion to Ace IV” tournament, please contact Matt Zollitsch at matt.zollitsch@prodigydisc.com.
After months of emotional debate and negotiation, Georgia lawmakers have given final approval to House Bill 268, a comprehensive school safety bill prompted by the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School on September 4th. The bill now heads to Governor Brian Kemp for his signature or veto. The legislation aims to improve communication and mental health support within school districts, while also implementing stricter safety protocols. It mandates police reporting to schools when a child threatens violence, facilitates quicker student record transfers, establishes a statewide anonymous reporting system, requires staff to wear panic buttons, and mandates the annual submission of electronic campus maps to relevant agencies. A contentious student-tracking database was scaled back, but the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) will create a statewide alert system for students who have threatened or committed violence at school after an investigation. The bill also toughens legal consequences for students aged 13 to 16 charged with violent crimes at school. While lawmakers express relief and necessity for the bill, concerns remain about potential misuse and the lack of guaranteed funding for the alert system’s implementation. Discussions about funding, with the House proposing $25 million and the Senate yet to agree, will continue in the coming days.
The Friends of Sloppy Floyd are thrilled to announce the return of a beloved springtime tradition! On April 19th, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the Easter Bunny will be making a special appearance at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, ready to pose for photos with park visitors. Bring your camera and head to the park office to capture a memorable moment with everyone’s favorite long-eared friend. This is a fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories for the whole family amidst the beautiful scenery of Sloppy Floyd State Park. Don’t miss out on this egg-cellent event! A $5 park pass is required for parking. Come out and celebrate the Easter season at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park in Summerville.
Chattooga County 4-H and the Georgia 4-H Foundation are calling on residents to show their support for local youth leadership development by participating in the annual “$4 for 4-H” campaign on April 4th. The initiative encourages community members to donate $4, $44, $444, or any amount they choose, to directly benefit Chattooga County programming and contribute towards a statewide goal of $114,444. Georgia 4-H, the largest youth leadership organization in the state, operates as a unit of the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Extension Service and serves every county in Georgia. Through hands-on learning experiences and mentorship, 4-H empowers young people with essential life skills like confidence, resilience, and curiosity. Participants choose from diverse projects in areas like science, health, agriculture, and citizenship, fostering valuable “learn-by-doing” opportunities. The Chattooga County 4-H program plays a vital role in the community, actively engaging with every school in the county and providing education and valuable life skills to hundreds of students annually. Your contribution to the “$4 for 4-H” campaign will directly support these vital programs and ensure that Chattooga County youth continue to thrive. Show your support on April 4th and help Chattooga County 4-H reach its goals
















