With summer officially underway, the Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) is issuing a warning to landowners about a potential surge in Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) activity. Peak SPB season has arrived, posing a significant threat to Georgia’s valuable pine forests. The GFC is actively assisting landowners in confronting this invasive pest, offering resources and expertise to help identify, manage, and mitigate potential outbreaks. Southern pine beetles are native to Georgia and are considered the most destructive type of pine beetle. They can kill large numbers of healthy trees over many acres in a short period of time. The Southern Pine Beetle can cause widespread damage to pine trees, ultimately leading to their death. Early detection and swift action are crucial to limiting the spread of the beetle and protecting Georgia’s forest resources. “Georgia’s west-central region had a lot of activity last year, and it hasn’t slowed since,” said Georgia Forestry Commission Forest Health Coordinator Paul McDaniel. “The highest numbers of southern beetles trapped this spring were in Polk and Paulding Counties; Carroll and Dawson were close behind.”Landowners are encouraged to visit the Georgia Forestry Commission website or contact their local GFC office for more information on identifying SPB infestations and implementing preventative measures. You can find more information from the GFC HERE

This year, summer officially kicks off on Friday, June 20th, a date that might surprise many who automatically associate the solstice with the 21st. While June 21st is often considered the first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, the actual date can fluctuate between June 20th, 21st, or even 22nd. This fascinating phenomenon, as explained by Space.com and The Courier-Journal, is a result of the complex interplay between Earth’s orbit and our standardized calendar system. The reasons are threefold: Earth’s Orbit: Our planet’s journey around the sun takes approximately 365.24 days, slightly longer than our standard 365-day calendar year. This fractional difference causes the solstice to drift over time. Solstice Timing: The summer solstice, defined as the moment the sun reaches its northernmost point from the celestial equator, isn’t locked to a specific calendar date. Its occurrence depends on Earth’s precise position in its orbit. Leap Years: While leap years, with their added day every four years, help realign our calendar with the Earth’s orbit, the adjustment isn’t perfect. The timing of the solstice can still shift slightly. So, mark your calendars for June 20th this year and prepare for warmer weather, longer days, and the official start of summer

Northwest Georgia can expect scattered thunderstorms this afternoon and into the evening, with the primary threats being gusty winds and frequent lightning. The National Weather Service is says there is a potential for localized flooding due to heavier rainfall associated with the storms. Showers and thunderstorms are likely today, primarily after 5 PM. The day will be mostly cloudy with a high near 85 degrees . A light southwest wind of around 5 mph is expected. The chance of precipitation is estimated at 60%. The threat of storms continues tonight, with a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Patchy fog is expected to develop after 5 AM. The skies will remain mostly cloudy with a low around 68 degrees . The southwest wind will gradually become calm in the evening. Looking ahead to the workweek, the forecast indicates a significant chance of rain and thunderstorms persisting through Friday. The highest probability of storms will be during the afternoon and evening hours each day. While the overall risk of severe weather is currently low, forecasters indicate that a couple of stronger storms are possible. High temperatures will remain in the 80’s, with overnight lows in the 60’s throughout the week. Residents are advised to stay informed of the latest weather updates and to take necessary precautions during the thunderstorms, including seeking shelter indoors and avoiding flooded areas.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, June 15, 2025:

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The City of Summerville Fire Department will be conducting routine hydrant flushing tomorrow, Monday, June 16th and again on Tuesday, June 17th, from 8 AM until 3 PM each day. This essential maintenance is crucial for ensuring the community’s safety and preparedness in the event of a fire. Residents in North Summerville, specifically in the Hairlake Road area, Orchard Hill Road area, and Commerce Street area, are advised that they may experience brief periods of water discoloration during the flushing process. “This discoloration is completely normal and safe,” assures a statement released by the Fire Department. “If you experience discolored water, simply run your tap for a few minutes, and the water should clear quickly.” During this maintenance period, Fire Department employees will be performing a series of vital tasks on each hydrant, including lubrication, flushing, and a thorough function check. The City of Summerville expresses its gratitude for the community’s cooperation and understanding as they carry out this vital work to maintain the integrity of the city’s fire suppression system.

The Trion Fire Department is actively recruiting dedicated individuals to join their ranks as volunteer firefighters and firefighter engineers. With attractive incentives and comprehensive training opportunities, the department aims to bolster its team and continue providing vital services to the community.

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Walker County Chairwoman Angie Teems is launching a series of five town hall meetings under the banner “Common Sense is Our Common Ground” to directly engage with residents and gather feedback on crucial issues impacting their lives.

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The 12u Summerville Indian All-Star baseball team is gearing up for the State Baseball Tournament in Statesboro, Georgia, and they’re holding a fundraising event to help make their trip a success! Saturday, June 21st, the team will be hosting a BBQ fundraiser in the Fit Pit parking lot. Delicious BBQ plates will be available for $10 each. Pre-orders are being taken now, but plates will also be sold on the spot. In addition to the BBQ, the team will also be holding a car wash in the Auto Zone parking lot during the same time. Get your car sparkling clean for just $7, or make a donation of your choosing. All proceeds will go towards travel expenses and ensuring the boys have a fun and memorable experience during the State Baseball Tournament. You are encouraged to come out next Saturday to the Fit Pit and Auto Zone parking lots, grab a BBQ plate, get your car washed, and support the Summerville Indian All-Stars as they head to Statesboro!

Data has identified Chattooga County, Georgia, as facing a concerning high rate of cancer, particularly cancers of the trachea, bronchus, and lung. The data reveals a significant disparity, with male residents experiencing these cancers at a substantially higher rate than their female counterparts. While national cancer death rates have been on a downward trend, new findings from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) highlight a troubling disparity between rural and urban areas. Rural America, including Chattooga County, is experiencing a slower reduction in cancer death rates (1.0 percent per year) compared to the more significant decrease seen in urban areas (1.6 percent per year). This disparity is primarily attributed to elevated death rates associated with lung, colorectal, prostate, and cervical cancers. Further complicating the issue, rural counties like Chattooga are also reporting higher rates of new diagnoses for lung, colorectal, and cervical cancers. Interestingly, these areas show lower rates of new breast and prostate cancer cases compared to urban centers. Experts emphasize that while geographical location is not a sole determinant of cancer risk, it can significantly impact access to crucial prevention, diagnosis, and treatment opportunities. The CDC underscores the importance of targeted public health efforts and interventions, stating that many cancer cases and deaths are preventable with the implementation of strategic strategies and resources.