Photo Credit: Georgia Power
Georgia Power and Mitsubishi Power announced on Monday, the successful completion of a second trial blending hydrogen and natural gas fuels at Plant McDonough-Atkinson in Smyrna. This demonstration project marks a significant advancement in sustainable energy generation, validating a 50% hydrogen fuel blend, the largest test of its kind globally to date.
Many Georgians are breathing a sigh of relief as they see extra funds appearing in their bank accounts. This marks the state’s third round of special tax refunds, a move announced on June 2nd by Governor Brian Kemp and the Georgia Department of Revenue.
A Walker County couple is facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty after their dogs allegedly charged at a realtor attempting to show a property on Ridgeland Road near Rossville. Tabitha Henley, 43, has already been arrested and charged with the crime. A warrant has been issued for her boyfriend, Richard Nealon, on the same charge. The investigation was launched after the realtor contacted Walker County Animal Control to report several dogs from a neighboring property barking, growling, and aggressively charging at him. Upon responding to the call at 349 Ridgeland Road, animal control officers observed one of the dogs exhibiting difficulty walking. Officer Tyler Bishop approached the residence and spoke with Henley. When questioned about the dog’s condition, Henley reportedly stated that the dog had been struck by a vehicle some time ago. However, she admitted to not seeking veterinary treatment for the animal, a violation of state law. Henley subsequently agreed to surrender the injured dog to the county for treatment. A veterinarian examination, including X-rays, revealed that the dog’s leg was broken and that the injury likely occurred several months prior. The veterinarian informed Officer Bishop that the injury was causing the dog significant pain and that amputation of the leg was the recommended course of action. If convicted, Henley and Nealon could face a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a fine of up to $15,000, or both.
Northwest Georgia residents can expect scattered thunderstorms this afternoon and into the evening, bringing with them the potential for gusty winds and frequent lightning. The National Weather Service has also issued a warning for possible localized flooding due to the anticipated heavy rainfall. Today’s forecast calls for showers and thunderstorms, particularly after 5 PM. While the morning will be partly sunny with a high near 86 degrees, the southwest wind will pick up, reaching 5 to 10 mph with gusts as high as 20 mph. The chance of precipitation is currently estimated at 60%, with expected rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch. The threat of showers and thunderstorms continues into tonight, primarily before 3 AM. Similar conditions are expected, with heavy rainfall possible. The evening will be mostly cloudy with a low around 69 degrees. South wind will remain between 5 to 10 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 20 mph. The chance of precipitation remains at 60%, with another quarter to half an inch of rain possible. Looking ahead to Wednesday, showers and thunderstorms are likely again, mainly after 2 PM. The day will be partly sunny, with a high near 86 degrees. The southwest wind will be slightly less intense, ranging from 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to 15 mph. The chance of precipitation remains at 60%, with new rainfall amounts expected to be between a tenth and quarter of an inch, although higher amounts are possible within thunderstorms.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, June 17, 2025:
Residents of Summerville, Georgia, are one step closer to cleaner drinking water after a federal district court approved two class-action settlements totaling $1.25 million. The settlements address the contamination of the town’s water supply with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often referred to as “forever chemicals.” The issue stemmed from the historical spreading of biosolids – treated sewage sludge – on farms and properties upstream from Summerville. These biosolids contained PFAS, which leached into the water supply. The US District Court for the Northern District of Georgia finalized the agreements last Wednesday. Chemical producer Huntsman International LLC will contribute $750,000 to the fund, while Mount Vernon Mills Inc. and the Town of Trion, Georgia, will contribute $500,000. The lawsuits alleged that Mount Vernon Mills’ textile mill was a significant source of PFAS contamination. Legal proceedings are ongoing with other defendants but advocates say this is a crucial step towards mitigating the pervasive issue of PFAS contamination in drinking water sources for Summerville water customers.
Starting July 1, 2025, Georgia’s self-storage facility owners will experience a significant change in how they handle delinquent storage unit auctions thanks to a new law, HB 131, going into effect. The law streamlines the advertising requirements for lien sales, offering a much-needed reprieve from previous, more burdensome regulations.
The Chattooga Athletic Booster Club is teeing up its 4th Annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, June 21st, at the Trion Golf Course. This fundraising event welcomes everyone to enjoy a day on the green while supporting the CHS Athletic Booster Club. Teams of four can register for $300, and businesses or individuals can become a hole sponsor for $100. The tournament format is a 4-Man Scramble, with morning tee-off scheduled for 8:30 AM and an afternoon start time of 1:30 PM. A cash prize will be awarded to the 1st place team. Participants will also enjoy a provided lunch and have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets at registration for a chance to win a Pellet Grill. Don’t miss this opportunity to support Chattooga High School athletics and have a great time! **To preregister, please visit the Trion Golf Course or contact Hollis Siffles.
The Town of Trion will open a new dog park in August to honor Brinley Corbin, a former resident who died from cancer at 26. Brinley dreamed of having a space for dogs to play, inspired by her love for her yellow lab, Millie. The park, named the “Brinley Corbin Memorial Dog Park,” will cover about one acre and will have separate fenced areas for small and large dogs. It will include features like agility obstacles, hoops, a water fountain, shaded areas with trees, and benches for pet owners. Currently, the town is focused on building a perimeter fence and is accepting sealed bids for the fencing contract until June 23, 2025, at 12:00 p. m. Brinley was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor in June 2023, but her friends and family remember her positivity and love for her community. The dog park project is funded by $20,000 from sales tax revenue, although there are some concerns about managing animal waste and health issues. Mayor Lanny Thomas, a close friend of the Corbin family, is leading the effort to make this park a reality, aiming to fulfill Brinley’s vision and create a joyful space for families and their pets.
Law enforcement agencies across Northwest Georgia are issuing warnings about a prevalent jury duty scam targeting residents. Scammers are reportedly contacting individuals, often by phone, posing as court officials or law enforcement officers.
