Former Georgia Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Joe D. Tanner passed away last Sunday, according to the agency. He served as commissioner from 1972 to 1984 and again from 1990 to 1995. During his 26 years in state government, Tanner merged 38 state agencies into the DNR and initiated over 400 legislative efforts, notably creating the Safe Dams Act after the 1977 Toccoa Falls dam failure. He also simplified the permitting process with a single-point environmental system. Tanner was instrumental in forming the Department of Natural Resources by combining dozens of state agencies into what the DNR is today.  The consolidation was part of then-Governor Jimmy Carter’s reforms in state government that reduced redundancy in state governmental agencies and streamlined state agencies and services.  This week, current Governor Brian Kemp expressed condolences and highlighted Tanner’s significant contributions to protecting Georgia’s natural resources. Services for Tanner are planned for next Wednesday.

The U. S. Food and Drug Administration has announced a recall of nearly 11,000 units of organic eggs due to possible salmonella contamination. This recall was made public on Wednesday by Handsome Brook Farms, which voluntarily recalled their 24-count eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature brand in several states.

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A Georgia man died in a crash during a high-speed chase with the Georgia State Patrol on Tuesday night. At around 8:12 p. m. , a trooper was monitoring speeds on Interstate 75 near Catoosa County. The trooper spotted a black 2015 Infiniti Q50 going 114 miles per hour and attempted to pull the driver, 22-year-old Hugo Urbano Chavez, over. Chavez did not stop, leading to a high-speed chase. As he approached exit 348, he lost control of his car, which flipped and stopped between the northbound lanes and the exit ramp. The trooper’s vehicle did not collide with Chavez’s car. Chavez was declared dead at the scene, while his passenger, 30-year-old Angel Aleman, was seriously injured and taken to a medical center. The crash is still under investigation.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, November 28, 2024:

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The Georgia State Patrol released a report about a Monday evening accident in Summerville involving a Walker County Sheriff’s patrol car and another vehicle.  According to the Georgia State Patrol Public Information Office, around 4:45 PM, a 2004 GMC Yukon, driving by 78-year-old Jimmy Pinion of Summerville was in the middle turn lane and attempted to make a left turn into the parking lot near Little Caesar’s Pizza and struck a Walker County Sheriff’s patrol car driven by 34-year-old Jarod Williamson of LaFayette.  The GMC Yukon struck the 2019 Dodge Charger patrol car in the driver’s-side front causing extensive damage.  The Yukon then rotated counterclockwise and came to rest facing north in the right-hand lane of Highway 27.  Pinion was cited for failure to yield.

Nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers are invited to join the Turkey Torcher Hikes at James H. Floyd State Park coming up tomorrow, November 29th. This special event offers two guided hikes led by park rangers, providing visitors with a chance to explore the park’s stunning landscapes while learning about the local ecology. The first hike kicks off at 10 AM, where participants will meet at the park office for a moderately strenuous 3-mile loop hike to the historic Marble Mine. This trek offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park while enjoying the crisp fall air. The cost to join this hike is just $1 per person. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the second hike begins at 2 PM, featuring an easy 1.2-mile stroll along the picturesque Storybook Trail. This family-friendly hike is perfect for all ages and is designed to inspire a love of nature in young explorers. Participants are reminded to bring water and wear comfortable shoes to ensure an enjoyable experience on both hikes. A $5 park pass is required for entry to James H. Floyd State Park. For more information or to address any questions, please contact the park office at 706-857-0826. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories at one of Georgia’s most beautiful state parks!

The Summerville Depot and East Washington streetscape will be transformed into a magical “Winter Wonderland” with a street vendor market with over 44 craft and food vendors to celebrate the Christmas shopping season and Small Business Saturday on Saturday, November 30 during the hours of 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The public is invited to enjoy shopping, dining, children’s activities and visits with Santa to welcome the holiday season

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The Rome-Floyd Metro Task Force conducted a raid on a home at 284 Thomas Bluff Road earlier this month on November 7, resulting in the seizure of almost 4 pounds of meth, 43 firearms, and several explosive devices. Following the search, warrants were issued for Terrance Lee Culberson, 45, and Amanda Leigh Causey, 41, who fled but were later arrested in Bartow County. Causey was brought to Floyd County to face charges on Monday of this week. The task force acted on information regarding Culberson’s involvement in illegal drug activities and stolen firearms. A subsequent search on Fulton Road uncovered more stolen items, including a golf cart and skid steer. Causey’s charges include felony possession and trafficking of meth, as well as felony possession of firearms. Culberson was arrested after a police chase and faces additional charges from Floyd County. Causey remained in jail without bond.

If you see the Salvation Army’s bell ringers in front of local stores over the holidays, make sure to drop some change in their kettles.

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