Nature enthusiasts of all ages are invited to celebrate Independence Day with a unique and educational experience at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park. On July 4th at 10:00 AM, the park will host a free Turtle Hike along the Upper Lake Trail. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the park’s beautiful surroundings and learn about the diverse turtle population that calls it home. Park rangers will guide the hike, providing insights into the turtles’ habitats, behaviors, and importance to the ecosystem. Those interested in joining the Turtle Hike are encouraged to meet at the park office before 10:00 AM. Comfortable walking shoes and water are essential for a pleasant experience. While binoculars will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, attendees are encouraged to bring their own if available for a closer look at the fascinating wildlife. This free event is a perfect way to spend the holiday appreciating nature and learning something new. For any questions regarding the Turtle Hike, please contact James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park at (706)-857-0826.

As the busy Fourth of July holiday week gets closer, the American Red Cross asks donors to celebrate by making a blood donation appointment to help power the blood supply through mid-summer. While all blood types are needed, donors with type O blood are most urgently needed.

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Starting July 1, 2025, Georgia drivers can legally present a digital version of their driver’s license on their smartphones, thanks to House Bill 296 (HB 296). This groundbreaking legislation recognizes digital licenses as valid proof of identification for operating a motor vehicle, marking a significant step toward a more digitized future. However, before you completely retire your physical license, there are a few important caveats.

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A Summerville man is facing multiple charges following a domestic dispute and subsequent theft investigation on June 20, 2025. According to a police report, Summerville Police responded to a call at 10:36 AM. involving a domestic situation. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim, who alleged that Nathiel Ratledge, the offender, pinned her to the ground and strangled her. Another woman, also identified as a victim in the report, stated she attempted to intervene and was allegedly punched by Nathiel Ratledge. Following the resolution of the domestic dispute, the victims reported that Nathiel Ratledge had stolen $3,000 from a locked box in a bedroom. Officers recovered $160 of the stolen funds scattered throughout the residence. During questioning, Nathiel Ratledge initially claimed to have given the money to a student to help a friend post bail. He later changed his story, stating he gave the money to a female to purchase a phone. The police report indicates that one of the victims possesses text messages in which Nathiel Ratledge allegedly admits to taking the money. Nathiel Ratledge was transported to Floyd Medical Center for a mental health evaluation. An arrest warrant was submitted, charging Nathiel Ratledge with two counts of simple battery and one count of theft by taking. The case remains under investigation.

Georgia Highlands College (GHC) has announced a significant expansion of its athletics program, introducing women’s cross country, volleyball, and flag football as officially sanctioned NJCAA sports. The move underscores GHC’s commitment to providing more opportunities for female student-athletes. The expansion kicks off this fall with the launch of the women’s cross country team. The runners will train and compete on GHC’s renowned course located at the Floyd Campus. Following cross country, women’s volleyball will be added as a full varsity NJCAA sport in the 2025-2026 academic year. The team is slated to compete in a 25-game schedule. GHC has initiated a national search to find the program’s inaugural head coach, setting the stage for a successful debut at the “Three Rivers Volleyball Classic” in August 2025. The final addition to the program will be women’s flag football, which is scheduled to launch in the Fall of 2026. This expansion further solidifies Georgia Highlands College’s dedication to enriching the athletic experiences of its students. This commitment has been something the college has invested in for many years and is now excited to see it come to fruition.

In a landmark victory for disability rights advocates, Georgia’s Senate Bill 55, also known as the “Dignity and Pay Act,” is set to abolish the controversial practice of paying workers with disabilities subminimum wages. The law, which goes into effect on July 1, 2025, will ensure that Georgians with disabilities are paid a fair wage for their labor.

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The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory that remains in effect until 8 PM, warning of heat index values soaring between 100 and 109 degrees Fahrenheit during peak hours. Residents are strongly urged to take precautions against heat-related illnesses, especially those most vulnerable, including the elderly, young children, and pets. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments for those working outdoors. If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, immediately move them to a cool, shaded area. Heat stroke is a medical emergency; call 911 immediately. Adding to the weather woes, isolated thunderstorms are expected to develop after 1:00 PM today, with a higher chance of widespread storms between 6:00 PM today and 4:00 AM Thursday. The primary concern with these storms is the potential for damaging winds ranging from 50 to 70 mph. Tree damage and power outages are possible. While the main threat is high winds, hail up to quarter size could also accompany the severe storms. Today’s forecast predicts mostly sunny skies with a high near 96 degrees, and heat index values could reach as high as 105. The chance of showers and thunderstorms remains slight before 9:00 PM tonight and after 1:00 AM, with a low around 72 degrees. The unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue into Thursday, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2:00 PM. The high temperature is forecasted to be near 94 degrees, with heat index values as high as 104. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period of extreme weather.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, June 25, 2025:

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The Chattooga Amateur Radio Club (CARC) is inviting the public to join them for their annual Field Day event this coming weekend, June 28th and 29th, at Sloppy Floyd State Park, Pavilion #2. Field Day is a cornerstone event in the amateur radio community, offering a unique blend of competition, education, and community outreach.

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Casey Herron, 36, of Calhoun, GA, has been arrested and charged with Terroristic Threats and Acts following an investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) and the Calhoun Police Department. On Sunday, June 22, 2025, Herron allegedly contacted the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) and made explicit threats to shoot GBI agents. GEMA/HS immediately alerted the GBI Watch Desk, Gordon County 911, and the Calhoun Police Department. Acting swiftly on the information, the Calhoun Police Department and GBI agents executed a search warrant at Herron’s residence on Jolly Road NW in Calhoun, GA, on Monday, June 23, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m. Herron was taken into custody without incident. He has been booked into the Gordon County Jail. The GBI expressed its gratitude to the Calhoun Police Department for their invaluable assistance in executing the search warrant and arrest. They also thanked GEMA/HS for their quick notification, which was crucial in ensuring a swift and safe resolution to the situation. The investigation remains active and ongoing. Further updates will be provided as they become available.