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.
Atrium Health Floyd is reminding area residents about National Health Care Decisions Day today, emphasizing the importance of having an advance directive in place. The hospital is hosting an advance directive signing event today to help individuals document their healthcare wishes.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) announces the appointments of Eddie Elsberry, Melissa Free, Kristine Godfrey and Matt Sawhill to its Board of Directors. The new members bring a diverse range of experience and expertise to the board, further strengthening GNTC’s commitment to serving the communities within its nine-county service area. Elsberry served on the Chattooga County Board of Education for 18 years, including serving as chairman.
Georgia gas prices continue to decline, with the state average now sitting at $2.98 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline. This marks a decrease of 6 cents compared to last week, offering a welcome break for drivers after weeks of fluctuating prices. While still 8 cents higher than a month ago, the current average is a significant 45 cents lower than the same time last year. Filling a 15-gallon tank now costs approximately $44.70, saving Georgians nearly $7.00 compared to last year’s prices. “Several factors contributed to the drop in gas prices,” explained Montrae Waiters, AAA-The Auto Club Group spokeswoman. “Lower crude oil prices, demand has tapered off now that Spring Break has ended in Georgia, and a hefty gasoline supply in the U.S. are all playing a role.” Gas prices vary across the state, with Floyd County averaging $2.90, Chattooga County at $2.92, Gordon County at $2.95, and Walker County offering the lowest local average at $2.88. Just across the state line in Alabama, DeKalb County is averaging $2.81 and Cherokee County $2.82.
The Chattooga County Agricultural Fair is gearing up for its 2025 edition, and vendor applications are now officially open.
Despite mirroring the national average with two cars per household, residents of Chattooga County are facing higher-than-average costs associated with car ownership, according to recent data. While the number of vehicles per household aligns with national trends, the financial burden of owning a car in Georgia is significantly steeper.
