Drivers in Chattooga County continue to face car insurance rates that closely mirror Georgia’s already high statewide averages.
Twenty-nine students received their High School Equivalency diplomas this week through the Youth Success Academy at Georgia Northwestern Technical College.
The City of Summerville has taken another step toward adding a new family-friendly attraction by approving a contract for a splash pad at J.R. “Dick” Dowdy Park.
During a recent meeting, the Summerville City Council approved awarding the project to Gametime at a cost of approximately $399,948.80. City officials said the splash pad is expected to enhance recreational opportunities for local residents and visitors.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters discussed the project with council members prior to the vote, noting that the splash pad represents a significant investment in community recreation. The facility is expected to provide a safe and enjoyable place for children and families to cool off during the summer months.
The addition of the splash pad is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve parks and recreational amenities. Once completed, the new attraction will become a centerpiece of Dowdy Park and is expected to serve residents for years to come.
City leaders expressed optimism about the project and its potential to enhance quality of life while providing another destination for families in the community.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 13, 2026:
A hot and mainly dry Saturday is expected across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, with temperatures climbing to around 92 degrees this afternoon. When humidity is factored in, heat index values could approach 99 degrees, making it feel significantly hotter during the peak afternoon hours.
With pool season underway, local residents are being reminded by Pine Ridge Outdoor Supply in Lyerly that there are several steps homeowners can take if they open their pool and find green water.
The business recommends first removing leaves, sticks, and visible debris, then brushing the entire pool, including walls, floors, steps, ladders, and corners, to help break up algae. Homeowners should also vacuum if possible, run the pump continuously until the water clears, and clean or backwash the filter so it can properly remove dead algae.
For a 21,000-gallon pool with visible algae, Pine Ridge says adding about two gallons of 12.5% liquid chlorine can begin fighting the algae before a full water test is completed. The chlorine should be poured slowly in front of a return jet while the pump is running.
Residents are also encouraged to get their pool water tested before adding anything else.
Pine Ridge Outdoor Supply offers pool water testing and a full line of pool supplies, allowing residents to shop locally instead of driving to Rome or Chattanooga.
Organizers are asking for community support as preparations continue for the annual Back to School Bash for Trion and Chattooga students.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 4 until 6 p.m. and will include music, free back-to-school haircuts, shaved ice treats, community resources, and support for students preparing for the new school year.
Maisha Ludy with Chattooga Family Connection says school supply donations are still needed. Items currently being requested include notebook paper, binders, dividers, markers, colored pencils, highlighters, composition books, glue sticks, and scissors.
Those who would like to donate supplies may contact Ludy at 706-388-9849 or email maishaludy@gmail.com.
Monetary donations are also being accepted. Donations may be made at United Community Bank to Chattooga County Collaborative, through CashApp at $MaishaLudy, or through Venmo at @Maisha-Ludy.
Organizers say every donation, large or small, will help support local students and families as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
A local nonprofit organization is inviting students and families to learn more about a unique educational opportunity planned for 2027.
Dreamers Outreach, Inc. announced plans for an educational and inspirational trip to the Obama Presidential Library in June 2027. The organization says the trip is designed to expose young people to leadership, history, education, and service while encouraging them to pursue their goals and dreams.
According to the organization, 10 students in grades 8 through 12 will be selected to participate in the experience.
An informational meeting for interested students and parents is scheduled for August 8 at 2 p.m. at Kuzzins, located at 105 Hemlock Street in Summerville. Organizers will discuss trip details, expectations, and future planning efforts.
Dreamers Outreach is also seeking community support for the project. The organization is encouraging parents and volunteers interested in serving as chaperones, sponsors who would like to support a student, and community members willing to assist through donations and fundraising efforts to get involved.
Organization leaders say community support will be essential in making the educational trip a reality and creating a meaningful experience for participating students.
The 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest is happening today in Trion.
The event, presented by the Family Crisis Center, will be held from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. today, Saturday, June 13, at the Trion Recreation Area, located at 90 Dalton Street in Trion.
The family-friendly festival will feature free parking and free admission, along with a free kayak paddle on the river, a free KidZone, open mic performances, educational demonstrations and talks, festival food, exhibitors, and more.
A cornhole tournament will also be part of the day’s activities, with registration and fees required for tournament participants and vendors.
The Chattooga River Group will have kayak raffle tickets and merchandise available for purchase at the CRG tent.
The day will wrap up with The Band Chickamauga performing from 4 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.
Families in Chattooga County will have an opportunity to get up close to a variety of emergency, utility, and service vehicles today during the City of Summerville’s Touch A Truck event.
The sensory-friendly event is scheduled for 10 a.m. until noon today, Saturday, June 13, on East Washington Street in downtown Summerville. Organizers say the event is designed specifically with the special needs community in mind while remaining open and welcoming to everyone.
Children and families will have the chance to climb aboard, explore, and learn about police vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, bucket trucks, tow trucks, tractors, and other specialized equipment used throughout the community.
Participants will also have an opportunity to meet local first responders, public safety officials, and community exhibitors, including representatives from the Summerville Police Department, Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, fire services, EMS, public works, and other local organizations.
Free Kona Ice will be available during the event, courtesy of United Community Bank and Southeast First National Bank.
Organizers say the event will feature a reduced-noise environment, hands-on exploration, and a supportive atmosphere designed to make the experience enjoyable for all ages and abilities.