While often overshadowed by other regions, Northwest Georgia, particularly the Appalachian Plateau, remains a vital contributor to Georgia’s thriving poultry and cattle industries. The region plays a significant role in the state’s overall agricultural output, contributing millions to the local economy. North Georgia is widely recognized as the “Poultry Capital of the World,” and the Appalachian Plateau is a key player in this distinction.
Here are the latest health inspection scores from the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the first half of April, 2025:
The Summerville Police Department is investigating a reported hit-and-run incident that occurred on Hawkins Drive. According to a police report, officers were dispatched to 167 Hawkins Drive following a report filed by Benjamin Williams. Upon arrival, officers spoke with Mr. Williams, who indicated that his 2020 Mazda 5 had been damaged while parked in front of the apartment complex. The damage was located on the driver’s rear corner of the vehicle. Mr. Williams stated he had been out of town for three days and discovered the damage upon his return. However, the report noted that the damage appeared to be significantly rusted and dirty, with large pieces of paint missing. Despite this, Mr. Williams maintained that the incident occurred within the past three days. The Summerville Police Department is currently investigating the incident and asks that anyone with information regarding the hit-and-run contact the department.
On Tuesday, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, along with First Lady Marty Kemp and other leaders, signed legislation in Cobb County, providing over $1 billion in tax relief for Georgians.
The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia (USG) approved tuition rates for the 2025-26 academic year, keeping tuition flat for most in-state undergraduates, while increasing out-of-state tuition by 2% and out-of-country tuition by 3%.
Baseball Hall of Famer and FOX MLB analyst John Smoltz will deliver the keynote address at Shorter University’s 2025 President’s Gala, a fundraising event benefiting student scholarships. The announcement was made on April 15th during Shorter University’s #SUForward Night at the Rome Emperors baseball game. The Gala will take place on Thursday, December 4th, and promises an evening of dinner, entertainment, and a special address from the celebrated pitcher.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, April 16, 2025:
The National Weather Service has issued a high fire danger warning for Northwest Georgia this afternoon and into the evening due to extremely low relative humidity levels. Relative humidity is expected to drop to 25 percent or less for a period of at least four hours. Northwest winds are predicted to blow at 7 to 12 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 20 to 25 miles per hour. With dry fuels, high fire danger conditions can be expected. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution with any potential ignition sources, such as open flames, cigarettes, and machinery that could produce sparks. The dry weather is expected to continue through Thursday. Today will feature pleasant temperatures with highs in the mid-60’s to low 70’s. Temperatures will be slightly cooler in northeast Georgia and higher elevations, ranging from the mid-50’s to mid-60’s. Winds will be less gusty than yesterday but some mixing is still anticipated this afternoon. Looking ahead, a warming trend is expected throughout the weekend as a high-pressure system builds over the southeastern United States. High temperatures will begin in the low 70’s. Rain is possible early next week as a slow-moving upper pattern settles over the region.
A Summerville man was arrested on Saturday, April 12th, 2025, for public intoxication and possessing an open container. According to a report released by the Summerville Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 45 Cox Street area at 8:17 a.m. following reports of a man screaming and yelling, appearing to argue with himself. Upon arrival, officers located Jerry Luallen walking towards 1st on Cox Street. The report states that Luallen exhibited signs of intoxication, including a strong odor of alcohol, glazed, glassy, bloodshot eyes, and unsteadiness on his feet. Officers also discovered Luallen was in possession of an open container of Budweiser Seltzer, which he was actively consuming. Authorities further found a partially consumed 12-pack of the same beverage. Mr. Luallen was taken into custody without incident and transported to the local jail. He faces charges related to public intoxication and possessing an open container in a public place.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) will hold an Open House at all six campuses on Thursday, April 17, from 10 a. m. to 6 p. m. This event allows people to learn about GNTC programs, tour the facilities, and meet faculty and staff. The campuses are located in Catoosa County, Floyd County, Gordon County, Polk County, Walker County, and Whitfield Murray. Attendees are invited to explore the campuses and start their college journey. The Open House will provide information on admissions, advising, career guidance, and financial aid, with admission fees waived for those attending. Attendees can tour campuses, meet staff, apply for free, and receive giveaways. For more information, contact Admissions. GNTC offers quality workforce education, with 13,775 individuals benefiting from its programs last year.
