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July 13, 2026

Magician Arthur Atsma Bringing Interactive Show to Chattooga County Library Tuesday

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Families looking for free summertime entertainment are invited to the Chattooga County Library on Tuesday afternoon for an interactive magic show featuring nationally recognized entertainer Arthur Atsma.

The performance begins at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, at the Chattooga County Library, located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville. The event is presented by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System and is free and open to the public.

Atsma is known for combining comedy, audience participation and fast-paced illusions into a family-friendly performance designed to entertain children and adults alike. Organizers say the show features a variety of performance arts woven into an engaging magical adventure that has delighted audiences around the world.

The program is part of the library’s summer activities and provides local families with another opportunity to enjoy free educational and recreational programming during the school break.

July 13, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Summerville Resident Reports Handgun Missing After Parking Vehicle

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A Summerville man has reported a handgun missing after discovering it was no longer inside his vehicle, according to the Summerville Police Department.

Police say James Parker contacted dispatch on June 28, 2026, to report that his Taurus G3 9mm handgun was missing. Parker told officers he believes someone stole the firearm while his vehicle was parked on Hawkins Drive.

According to the incident report, Parker last saw the handgun at approximately 8:30 p.m. on June 27 and discovered it missing around 1:30 a.m. on June 28. The firearm was identified by its serial number in the report.

The incident remains under investigation by the Summerville Police Department, and no suspects have been identified.

July 13, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia State Election Board Approves New Rules Aimed at Increasing Election Transparency

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The Georgia State Election Board has approved two new election rules supporters say are designed to increase transparency and public confidence in the state’s voting process ahead of the 2026 elections. The rules were adopted during the board’s July meeting following public comment and debate.

One of the new rules requires that vote tabulation and consolidation be conducted in public, allowing election observers to watch the process as precinct-level results are combined into countywide totals. State law already allows authorized poll watchers to observe many aspects of the election process, and supporters say the rule further reinforces public access.

The board also approved a rule giving State Election Board members access to the Secretary of State’s election operations center, often referred to as the “election night bunker,” during elections. Supporters say the change provides additional oversight, while critics have questioned whether the board has the legal authority to require such access.

The rule changes come as Georgia prepares for the 2026 election cycle and continue an ongoing discussion over election administration and transparency in the state.

July 13, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Summerville City Council to Meet This Evening; Fair Donation, Building Regulations Among Agenda Items

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The Summerville City Council will hold its regular monthly meeting this evening (Monday) at 5 p.m. at Summerville City Hall. The meeting agenda includes recognition of a retiring firefighter, infrastructure-related contract changes, building regulations, and a proposed contribution to the Chattooga County Fair.

July 13, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley Seeks Volunteers to Help Build Homes and Hope

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Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley is seeking volunteers to support its mission of building homes and creating hope for families across Chattooga, Floyd and Polk counties.

Volunteers do not have to be experienced with construction to help. The organization offers several ways for community members to get involved.

Ground was broken in late May on Habitat’s 62nd home, which will be built for the Cornejo family. Executive Director Betsy Allgood encourages residents to watch for upcoming information about volunteer opportunities connected with the home build.

Volunteers are also needed to work concessions during Rome Emperors home games at AdventHealth Stadium. Habitat operates two large concession stands and the nacho stand, receiving 15 percent of the proceeds along with any tips donated by customers.

Habitat also welcomes volunteers, donations and shoppers at its ReStore near Central Plaza in Rome.

More information about volunteer opportunities with Habitat for Humanity – Coosa Valley is available at www.habitatcoosavalley.org.

July 13, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Replica of Declaration of Independence Now on Display in Downtown Summerville

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As the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Chattooga County residents have a chance to view a full-sized replica of America’s founding document right in downtown Summerville.

July 13, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Sloppy Floyd State Park Hosting Cloud Spotters Program and Night Hike Saturday

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James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is inviting outdoor enthusiasts to take part in two ranger-led programs on Saturday, July 18, offering opportunities to learn about the natural world during both the day and night.

The day begins with the Cloud Spotters program at 10 a.m., where participants will create a cloud spotter craft before hiking to the Lower Lake Dam to learn about different cloud formations and Earth’s weather systems. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket, sunglasses and plenty of water. The program costs $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is also required.

Later that evening at 8 p.m., the park will host a Cold-Blooded Critters Night Hike along the Upper Lake Trail. Rangers will introduce participants to reptiles, amphibians and other cold-blooded animals while discussing their habitats, diets and survival strategies. Participants should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water. The night hike is also $3 per person, with a $10 park pass required.

Advance registration is required for both programs. To register or for more information, call the park office at 706-857-0826.

July 12, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga County Public Meeting Set to Review 2024 Audit and 2025 Budget Amendments

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Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has scheduled a public meeting for Thursday, July 16, to review the county’s 2024 Audit Report and consider amendments to the 2025 county budget.

The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. in the Commissioner’s Conference Room at the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, located at 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville.

According to the public meeting notice, the two matters listed for discussion are a review of the completed 2024 audit and consideration of changes to the county’s 2025 budget.

The meeting is open to the public, and residents are invited and encouraged to attend.

Meeting Details

Date: Thursday, July 16, 2026
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Commissioner’s Conference Room, Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, 10102 Commerce Street, Summerville

July 12, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Man Arrested in Multi-Agency Dog Fighting Investigation; 23 Dogs Rescued

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A Crawford County man is facing state and federal charges after a multi-agency investigation into alleged illegal dog fighting led to the rescue of 23 dogs and the seizure of firearms and suspected illegal drugs.

July 12, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Walker County Approves Temporary Moratorium on New Data Centers

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The Walker County Board of Commissioners has approved a temporary moratorium on new data center development, giving county officials time to study the issue and determine whether additional local regulations are needed before such facilities are considered.