Rescue crews successfully saved three individuals stranded at the Dry Creek Trailhead last Tuesday after severe flooding left them marooned. According to Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader, Chattooga Water Rescue and the county’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) responded to the emergency. The incident began when a man drove his truck too far into the flooded creek, rendering him unable to reverse. Emergency personnel were able to assist the man, along with two women who had been stranded on the other side of the creek since early Monday morning, safely across the water. Sheriff Schrader used the incident to remind the public about the importance of staying vigilant and aware of weather conditions, particularly when driving. He emphasized, “Always… Always… remember ‘TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN.'” His words serve as a crucial reminder to prioritize safety during periods of heavy rain and potential flooding.

A Frost Advisory has been issued for Northwest Georgia from 2 AM to 9 AM EDT on Sunday. The National Weather Service warns that temperatures are expected to drop between 33 and 36 degrees Fahrenheit, creating conditions favorable for frost formation. The affected area encompasses Northwest Georgia. The Frost Advisory will be in effect during the early morning hours of Sunday, specifically from 2:00 AM to 9:00 AM EDT. The primary concern is the potential for frost to damage or kill sensitive outdoor vegetation. Residents are strongly advised to take precautionary measures to protect vulnerable plants from the cold. Covering sensitive outdoor plants is recommended to prevent damage from the expected frost. Residents are urged to take action now to safeguard their gardens and landscapes from the impending frost.

Northwest Georgia residents should prepare for the possibility of patchy frost tonight as temperatures are expected to dip near freezing. This follows a day of unseasonably cool weather across the region, with daytime highs in the mid 60’s, below normal for this time of year. While will be light today compared to Friday, Northwest gusts over 20 mph are still anticipated throughout the afternoon. The National Weather Service is forecasting winds to diminish tonight, leading to periods of near calm. Combined with clear skies, this will allow for significant radiant cooling, increasing the chance of frost formation in susceptible areas. Looking ahead, warmer temperatures are expected to return on Sunday under mostly sunny skies. Highs are forecast to reach the mid-60s. The outlook for the remainder of the week, from Sunday night through Friday, indicates warm and more seasonal temperatures. The forecast also predicts a mostly dry week, with no thunderstorms expected.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, March 12, 2025:

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The Georgia State Patrol (GSP) officially opened a new post on the grounds of the Governor’s Mansion in Buckhead on Wednesday, marking an investment in public safety for the community and surrounding Atlanta areas. Governor Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by House Speaker Jon Burns, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, and other state and local officials to commemorate the opening.

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Georgia residents could soon see some financial relief thanks to the passage of House Bill 136 and House Bill 112 by state legislators during the recently concluded legislative session. The bills, aimed at easing financial burdens, now await Governor Brian Kemp’s signature to become law. House Bill 136 focuses on expanding the state income tax credit for child care costs, increasing the limit from 30% to 50%. In addition, it establishes a $250 state tax credit for each child under six years old, set to take effect in the 2026 tax year. House Bill 112 proposes a one-time tax rebate for all adult Georgia residents. Single taxpayers and married taxpayers filing separately would receive $250, heads of household would receive $375, and married couples filing jointly would receive $500.  Governor Kemp now has 40 days, until May 15th, to either approve or veto the bills.

Chattooga County residents are invited to attend the First Annual Chattooga County Health Fair today, April 12, 2025, from 8:00 AM to Noon at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center, located at 40 Middle School Rd. in Summerville. The Ag Building is conveniently located off Highway 100 on Middle School Road. This FREE event is organized by a collaborative effort from the Community Resource Center of Chattooga, AdventHealth, the Northwest Georgia Regional Cancer Coalition, the University of Georgia Extension, Chattooga County Department of Public Health, Chattooga Family Connection, and Atrium Health. The health fair aims to provide valuable access to health screenings and educational resources for the community. Attendees can expect to find five health education vendors on-site, offering information and support on a variety of health topics. Don’t miss this important opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being. The Chattooga County Health F

A woman from Chattooga County, Karen Wiseman, is facing charges after reportedly fighting with law enforcement and a security guard at Lyerly Cemetery last week. The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office stated that Wiseman was found asleep in her vehicle on the cemetery grounds. A deputy responded to a report about a woman asleep in her car, who might have damaged tombstones. The security guard informed the the deputy that Wiseman had already been asked to leave earlier and had raised concerns about potential damage. When the deputy approached Wiseman and identified himself, she became agitated, yelling and screaming. Despite being asked to leave calmly, she refused and continued to shout. When she exited her vehicle and started to walk away, the deputy tried to detain her. Wiseman allegedly resisted and reached into her vehicle. Fearing she was getting a weapon, the deputy restrained her with help from the security guard until other deputies arrived. Wiseman was then taken to the Chattooga County Jail.

Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office is seeking a dedicated individual to fill the vital role of Animal Control Officer. This full-time position offers the opportunity to make a real difference in the community by ensuring the safety and well-being of local animals while upholding public safety. The Animal Control Officer will be responsible for responding to animal-related incidents and complaints, enforcing local animal control laws, providing care and shelter for stray and abandoned animals, and educating the public on responsible pet ownership. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication and problem-solving skills and demonstrate the ability to handle animals safely and humanely. While previous experience in animal care or control is preferred, it is not required. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit their resume and cover letter in person at the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, located at 10102 Commerce Street, Summerville, GA, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Applications will be accepted until April 25, 2025

Starting May 7th, 2025, boarding a domestic flight in the U.S. will require a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification. This change, stemming from the REAL ID Act of 2005, aims to enhance security and reduce identity fraud.

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