According to a police report released late last week, a Summerville woman was arrested following a domestic dispute on Northwest Congress Street. According to a Summerville Police Department report, officers responded to a call on Northwest Congress Street where they encountered Marcus Reed, the victim, who stated that Lacey Dunn arrived at his residence and immediately began arguing with him. The argument escalated, and Dunn allegedly threw a rock through a window of Reed’s residence. Upon speaking with Dunn, officers detected a strong odor of alcohol on her breath and observed her holding an open alcoholic beverage. Dunn reportedly claimed she was upset because Reed was hitting her mother, who also resides at the residence. Dunn admitted to breaking the window and was subsequently detained. While detained, officers spoke with Dunn’s mother, who requested that Dunn be released into the custody of her sister. Reed agreed to this arrangement. However, while awaiting her sister’s arrival, Dunn allegedly stated that she preferred to go to jail, believing it would be better for her at that time. Lacey Dunn was arrested and charged with criminal damage to property in the 2nd degree. She was subsequently booked into the Chattooga County Jail.

Officials and community members celebrated the groundbreaking of the AdventHealth Cancer Pavilion last Friday in Rome, Georgia. Isaac Sendros, President and CEO of AdventHealth Georgia, emphasized that the organization’s mission aligns closely with the healing ministry of Jesus, especially in cancer care. The new 30,000 square foot facility will enhance AdventHealth’s cancer services in Northwest Georgia, expanding access to top-tier cancer care in Floyd County. It will offer medical oncology, infusion treatment, and women’s imaging services. A dedicated team of specialists will provide comprehensive support, including genetic screening, nutrition classes, financial education, emotional health programs, survivorship resources, rehab, support groups, and access to clinical trials. Sendros stated that it is crucial for the community to have choices in health services, and expressed his commitment to delivering an outstanding patient experience. The pavilion is set to open in Summer 2026.

The Chattooga County 4-H program and the Chattooga County Extension Office are currently conducting their annual Georgia Peach Sale, a vital fundraiser supporting local youth development programs. For years, the Extension Office has partnered with the renowned Dickey Farms in Musella, Georgia, to bring fresh, delicious Georgia peaches to Chattooga County residents, all while supporting a worthy cause. Dickey Farms, steeped in history, has been a cornerstone of Georgia’s peach industry since 1897. Robert L. Dickey, captivated by the Elberta peach, planted his first 30 acres of trees, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving family business.  Inspired by the Elberta peach, Robert L. Dickey planted his initial orchard in 1897, marking the official birth of Dickey Farms. In 1936, he constructed the iconic packing house using lumber sourced directly from his property. Today, Dickey Farms remains a family affair, operated by multiple generations of the Dickey family. More than just a peach farm, it’s a testament to family heritage, a local landmark, and a destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the heart of Georgia’s vibrant peach industry. Support Chattooga County 4-H and enjoy the taste of summer! Order your delicious Dickey Farms Georgia Peaches today by calling the Chattooga County Extension Office at 706-857-0744.

In recent years, home ownership has been difficult due to changing trends and economic uncertainty. Although buyers enjoyed low-interest rates during the pandemic, high prices from limited inventory and competition remained a challenge. Now, while high-interest rates have somewhat lowered home prices, they have not offset increased borrowing costs. The ongoing lack of housing inventory keeps prices high, making it hard for potential homeowners. The average monthly mortgage payment for a median-priced home in the U. S. is nearly 60% higher than it was three years ago. Interest rates are at their highest since 2002. Between February 2022 and February 2025, mortgage rates increased by 80%, and home prices rose significantly, raising monthly payments by about $700. Some areas saw milder increases, but many have experienced steep price rises since the pandemic began. Currently, the average home mortgage in Chattooga County is $1,128 per month.  That compares to $1,273 in Walker County and $1,416 in Floyd County.  In comparison, the average mortgage in DeKalb County, Alabama, is just $826 per month.

Andres Pascuel Gomez, a 21-year-old male, was arrested on charges of Pedestrian Under the Influence (PUI) on May 20th.  Chattooga County Sheriff’s Deputies initially responded to a call regarding a person riding a bicycle erratically in traffic on Highway 27 near Domino’s Pizza. The reporting party indicated the individual appeared intoxicated. While deputies initially couldn’t locate the subject, Trion Police Department subsequently stopped Gomez at the intersection of Selman Road and Dickeyville Road after observing him riding his bicycle in the center median and wobbling. Trion Police contacted the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office due to Gomez’s apparent intoxication. According to the responding deputy, Gomez exhibited a strong odor of alcohol and had glassy, bloodshot eyes. Gomez reportedly admitted to consuming two shots of liquor. Attempts to administer a field alco-sensor test by the deputy were initially unsuccessful. Deputies then successfully administered the test with the assistance of a Spanish-speaking resident who translated instructions. The alco-sensor registered a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .203. Due to his level of intoxication, the deputy determined it was unsafe for Gomez to continue operating his bicycle on the roadway. He was subsequently arrested for being a pedestrian under the influence, handcuffed, and transported to the Chattooga County Jail. A citation was issued for the offense. Gomez’s bicycle was left in the care of the translator, at a nearby residence for safekeeping.

Here are the latest health inspection scores from the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the last half of May, 2025:

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The City of Summerville announced the release of both a Request for Professional Services (RFP) and a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) aimed at securing expert assistance in grant writing and administration. The move signifies the city’s proactive approach to securing federal funding for vital community and economic development projects.

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Northwest Georgia residents can expect another day of dry weather with a mix of sunshine and clouds, according to the National Weather Service. However, like yesterday, the sky may take on a hazy or milky appearance as northwesterly winds continue to carry wildfire smoke from Canada southeastward. While the smoke is expected to remain elevated, minimizing any impact on surface visibility, residents should be aware of the potential for hazy conditions. Low temperatures this morning ranged from the mid-50s to mid-60s. High temperatures today will reach the 80s, with slightly cooler temperatures expected in the mountain regions. Isolated to widely scattered showers and storms are predicted for far north Georgia this afternoon and early evening, primarily along and north of a line from Summerville to Jasper to Cleveland. While a disturbance currently moving across the Lower Mississippi River Valley might trigger some activity, forecasters believe conditions may not be ideal for widespread storm development. However, a storm or two could still produce gusty winds up to 40 mph. The forecast for today:Mostly sunny, with a high near 82 degrees. Calm winds will become west around 5 mph in the afternoon. Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 59 degrees and calm wind. Looking ahead, dry weather and near-normal temperatures are expected to persist through midweek. A change in weather patterns is anticipated by Thursday and Friday, bringing scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms. Even more widespread rainfall and thunderstorms are likely next weekend as a cold front moves towards the Tennessee Valley, potentially increasing rainfall coverage across northwest Georgia.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, June 1, 2025:

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National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW) kicks off today, and Georgia is spearheading the celebration with a variety of events and opportunities encouraging residents to embrace the joys of outdoor recreation. This week-long event highlights the importance of fishing and boating while promoting conservation efforts. Scott Robinson, Chief of the Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) Fisheries Management Section, emphasized the numerous benefits of engaging in these activities. “Whether you’re casting a line in a vast reservoir or enjoying a quiet moment at a local pond, fishing and boating offer invaluable opportunities to connect with loved ones, relieve stress, and support vital conservation programs,” Robinson stated. He further noted that purchases of fishing gear and boating fuel directly contribute to the funding of these initiatives. Georgia residents can celebrate NFBW with a Free Fishing Day this Saturday, June 7th, 2025, offering a chance to fish without a license. Families are encouraged to participate in fishing events taking place across the state. For younger anglers, the Angler Academy offers engaging online crafts and games. Explore the diverse fishing opportunities available throughout Georgia’s public lands and state parks. For complete details on NFBW events and activities in Georgia, please visit [GeorgiaWildlife.com/nfbw](GeorgiaWildlife.com/nfbw). Get out on the water and discover the joys of fishing and boating!