The Supreme Court of Georgia has invalidated four of the seven election rules adopted by the Republican-led State Election Board. The unanimous decision, released Tuesday, affirmed concerns that the board overstepped its authority in implementing the rules.
According to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, a man was arrested outside a gas station in Menlo after making “inappropriate gestures” to passing motorists and attempting to enter the store, that was closed at the time. The incident happened on Tuesday of this week at 12:10 AM at the America’s Quick Stop gas station near the intersection of Highway 48 and Jamestown Road. Deputies responded to a call about a male subject, later identified as 64-year-old George Franklin Atchley, attempting to enter the closed gas station. A passerby flagged down a deputy, stating they witnessed Atchley, described as wearing a green neon hoodie, repeatedly attempting to enter the store and making lewd, sexual gestures. When deputies attempted to approach Atchley, he fled on foot. After a brief pursuit, Atchley stopped, but again attempted to flee when the responding deputy tried to exit his patrol vehicle. Two deputies were able to apprehend Atchley near Showa Best Glove. Atchley was taken to the Chattooga County Jail on misdemeanor charges of loitering or prowling and obstruction of officers.
After three decades of dedicated service, Paula Buice, Principal of Menlo Elementary School, has announced her retirement. In a letter addressed to students, families, staff, and the broader Menlo community, Buice expressed her gratitude and reflected on her journey with the school. Buice’s connection to Menlo Elementary runs deep. “My story with Menlo Elementary began as a student, attending from first through eighth grade,” she wrote. Later, she returned to teach and eventually served as principal, witnessing countless students grow and succeed within the nurturing environment of the school. Beyond her role at Menlo Elementary, Buice also served on the Chattooga County district’s Academic Coach Team, working alongside other educators to enhance student achievement and cultivate a lifelong love of learning. In her farewell message, Buice expressed her appreciation to everyone who contributed to her fulfilling career. “I want to thank everyone—students, families, staff, and colleagues—for your support, kindness, and collaboration over the years. Menlo Elementary holds a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the memories we’ve shared.”
Just as summer heats up and Georgians flock outdoors, a new and potentially dangerous pest is emerging: the Asian needle ant. New research from the University of Georgia (UGA) has raised concerns about the ant’s venomous sting, which, in some cases, can trigger life-threatening anaphylactic shock. While first detected in the U.S. in the 1930s, the Asian needle ant has remained relatively unnoticed until recently.
Chattooga Head Start is now open for enrollment for the upcoming school year, offering a nurturing and educational environment where young children can grow, play, and thrive. Parents are encouraged to apply quickly as spots are filling fast! Chattooga Head Start provides early learning and development opportunities, ensuring children receive a strong foundation for future academic success. The program is led by a team of supportive and caring teachers dedicated to fostering a positive and stimulating learning experience. Beyond the classroom, Chattooga Head Start offers family-focused services, understanding the importance of a strong home-school connection. This comprehensive approach aims to support the entire family unit, creating a thriving community for all. Interested parents are urged to contact the following individuals to get their child on the enrollment list: Ashley Careathers: acareathers@myfraga.org or Tina Striblin: tstriblin@myfraga.org
Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) announced this week the students who have earned a place on the President’s and Dean’s Lists for the Spring 2025 semester. These honors recognize students who have achieved outstanding academic success while pursuing their educational goals. To qualify for the President’s List, students must maintain a GPA of 3.8 or higher while carrying a course load of at least 12 credit hours during the semester. The Dean’s List recognizes students with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.79, also with a minimum of 12 credit hours. GNTC extends its congratulations to all students recognized for their hard work and dedication. A special acknowledgement goes out to the following Chattooga County residents who achieved President’s List status: Tennie Bandy, David Bohannon, Jennifer Bohannon, Kaylin Brewer, Ariel Cargle, Tammy Chandler, Gretchen Clark, Jacob Cordell, Raven Dallas, Brantley Daniel, Case Davis, Noah Denson, Gayler Diaz-Vasquez, Victoria Gammon, Karsen Gilliam, Khristen Hastings, Bowden Heathcock, Dushaun Hunter, Danika Lee, Ethan Lembcke, Nasiah McVay, Stacy Moore, Tabatha Oney, Summer Railey, Lina Ramirez, Desirae Rogers, Ranzy Smith, Libby Veatch, Courtney Villagomez, Tayler Watson, Abram Williams and Mayahuel Yaoapoqa. The following Chattooga County residents earned Dean’s List honors: Dalton Bearden, William Cesareo, Colter Clifton, Luis Garcia, Matthew Hamby, Isis Hines, Jacob Odom, Nicole Smith and Haign Stephens. GNTC continues to be a leading provider of technical education, empowering students to succeed in a variety of high-demand fields. The college commends these students for their academic achievements and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.
The City of Summerville announced on Thursday, that Georgia Power will be doing scheduled maintenance at the Summerville Water Department pump station located on Highway 48 coming up this Monday, June 16th. According to city officials, the work will begin around 8 AM and will affect in a temporary water outage at the pump station. As a result, water customers in the surrounding area may experience low – or no – water pressure for a period of time until the work is completed. If anyone has questions, they may contact Summerville City Hall at 706-859-0907.
Earlier this week, Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen passed a resolution adopting a new seal for the county. The seal features each of the county’s four municipalities – Trion, Menlo, Summerville and Lyerly and shows the Chattooga River prominently. County Code Enforcer B.J. Hall came up with the graphic design for the new logo. It was adopted on June 11, 2025 and will be used going forward, according to Commissioner Allen.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, June 12, 2025:
