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May 8, 2026

Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Drops To 3.3 Percent

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The Georgia Department of Labor announced Thursday that Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a point over the month to 3.3 percent.

That compares to 3.2 percent one year ago.

The region’s labor force increased by 2,155 over the month and by 4,086 over the year, reaching 459,952, an all-time high. The number of employed residents also rose, increasing by 2,996 over the month and 3,515 over the year to 444,625, also an all-time high.

Initial unemployment claims were up by 718 over the month and by 852 over the year, reaching 2,557.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said the numbers are a strong sign during Economic Development Week, noting that more Georgians are securing jobs that support families and strengthen communities.

May 8, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Governor Kemp Signs Major Forestry Legislation Supporting Rural Georgia

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Governor Brian P. Kemp signed a major package of forestry and natural resources legislation Thursday at the Georgia Forestry Association headquarters in Forsyth, highlighting what industry leaders are calling a major boost for Georgia’s forestry economy and rural communities.

May 8, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

City Of Summerville Hiring Gas Maintenance Worker

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The City of Summerville is now accepting applications for a Gas Maintenance Worker position.

The job involves assisting with the installation, repair, and maintenance of gas lines and system components throughout the city. Duties include transporting equipment, locating and repairing gas leaks, conducting inspections, maintaining pipelines and meters, and responding to emergency repair calls, including after-hours situations.

Workers will also be responsible for marking underground utilities, performing pressure tests, maintaining tools and inventory, and completing service reports.

The position requires outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions and includes physical tasks such as lifting, climbing, bending, and operating specialized equipment.

Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and typically need one to two years of related experience or training. A valid Georgia driver’s license, or the ability to obtain one, is also required.

Those interested can apply through the City of Summerville employment application.

May 8, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Georgia Law Will Require Autism Training For Police During Traffic Stops

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Georgia lawmakers have approved legislation aimed at helping law enforcement officers better handle traffic stops involving people with autism and developmental disabilities.

May 7, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Pollen Extremely High Across Northwest Georgia

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Allergy sufferers across Northwest Georgia are dealing with very high grass pollen levels today, creating a significant allergy risk throughout the area. Forecasters say the elevated pollen counts are expected to remain high through Friday.

Tree pollen levels are currently listed as moderate, but the high concentration of grass pollen is likely to trigger symptoms for many residents, including sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and headaches.

Recent warm temperatures combined with spring growth have helped fuel the increase in pollen across the region. Dry conditions and breezy weather can also allow pollen to spread more easily through the air.

Health experts recommend limiting outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, keeping windows closed, showering after spending time outside, and taking allergy medications as directed.

Conditions could begin to improve later this weekend as increased rain chances move back into Northwest Georgia.

May 7, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Rain Moves Out As Cooler, Drier Air Settles Into Northwest Georgia

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Rain will continue pushing out of Northwest Georgia this morning as a cold front moves away from the region. Behind it, high pressure will build in across Tennessee and North Georgia, bringing drier and cooler conditions through Friday.

April 28, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

National Day Of Prayer In Chattooga County Set For May 7

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The National Day of Prayer in Chattooga County will be observed on Thursday, May 7, beginning at 6:30 PM.

Pastor Gary Howell of United Christian Fellowship says the gathering will be held at the Open Air Pavilion in downtown Summerville. In the event of rain, the observance will be moved to the Chattooga County Ag Center.

The National Day of Prayer is held each year on the first Thursday in May, inviting communities across the country to gather in prayer for the nation, its leaders, families, schools, churches, and local communities.

The public is invited to attend.