Starting in January 2025, millions of Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 2. 5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to help combat inflation and rising living costs. The announcement made in October 2024 is welcome news for those relying on Social Security benefits. On average, recipients can expect a $49 monthly increase, bringing the typical payment to around $1,968 from $1,920. Specific adjustments include spouses of retired workers seeing a jump from $909. 78 to $932. 52, and nondisabled widows and widowers increasing from $1,784. 56 to $1,829. 17. While the increase will officially begin in January 2025, the timing of the first adjusted payment depends on the recipient’s birth date. Experts caution that the 2. 5% increase may not fully cover the rising costs faced by retirees, such as increasing healthcare and housing expenses. For example, Medicare Part B premiums are expected to rise by 5. 9% in 2025. Recipients are advised to plan accordingly for these factors that could impact their financial well-being amid escalating living costs.

A man in Floyd County was sentenced to five years in prison for torturing and burning a grey and white cat named Chestnut. The cat was found burnt with zip ties and trash in a front yard near an airport. Investigators tracked down 32-year-old Zachary Ky Murphy, who had scratches, adoption papers, a gas can, and a hammer. Murphy had just adopted the cat hours before at the Floyd County Animal Shelter. A report showed lung damage to the cat,  consistent with being strangled and burned alive. Murphy also charged with throwing a fake pipe bomb at a vape shop. He was sentenced to five years in prison for aggravated cruelty to animals, as well as additional charges.

The Chattooga County Board of Education has an immediate opening for a full-time Secretary to the Chief Academic Officer at its Central Office. This essential role supports the academic leadership of the district and is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in contributing to the educational landscape of Chattooga County Schools.

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The City of Summerville has scheduled a Special Called Meeting on October 28, 2024, at 5:30 P. M. at Summerville City Hall to address an Alcohol Board hearing for a recent violation. Mayor Harry Harvey will lead the meeting with a roll call, invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda includes approval and consent items for quick agreement by council members. The new business segment will focus on discussing the alcohol violation and determining necessary actions. The public is invited to attend.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, October 26, 2024:

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Chattooga 56- Dade 36

Trion had a bye week

Advance voting continues today at the Chattooga County Registrars Office for the upcoming November 5th General Election.  The hours for voting today are 9 AM until 5 PM.  All early voting in Chattooga County takes place at the Registrars Office, located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville, adjacent to the Chattooga County Court House.  Be sure to bring a picture ID when you come to vote.  Next week, advance voting continues Monday – Friday between the hours of 8:30 AM and 6 PM.  If you have questions, you may contact the Chattooga County Registrars Office at 706-857-0739.

The unemployment rate in Northwest Georgia has dropped by eight-tenths to 3.3% compared to August, although it remains slightly higher than the 2.9% recorded a year ago. The latest figures reveal a resilient labor market, with the labor force increasing by 2,299 compared to last month and growing by 6,706 year-over-year, bringing the total labor force to an impressive 448,171. The number of employed residents in the region also saw a significant rise, increasing by 5,682 since August and by 4,757 compared to September 2022. However, initial claims for unemployment benefits have risen, with 556 more claims compared to August and an increase of 42 from the same time last year. Georgia Labor Commissioner Bruce Thompson remarked on the trends, stating, “While some metro areas throughout the state have seen a slight dip in jobs, the overall increase in employment shows that more residents are finding work and contributing to our local economies.” In Chattooga County, the unemployment claims totaled 378, resulting in a September unemployment rate of 3.9%.

The Trion Police Department has released more information about his year’s Halloween Walk:

The Town of Trion will hold its annual Halloween Walk on Thursday, October 31, 2024, starting at 5:30. In order to ensure everyone’s safety, please utilize the crosswalk in front of the football field when entering the area and adhere to the instructions of those directing traffic. We ask that everyone be respectful of homeowners in the area, especially those who are not participating in the festivities. Please respect their privacy and refrain from disturbing their property. There will be a strict 9pm curfew that will be stringently enforced. We hope that everyone enjoys a safe and enjoyable Halloween Walk and we look forward to seeing you there.