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May 1, 2026

Perfect Scores Highlight Latest Chattooga County Health Inspections

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The latest health inspection report for Chattooga County covering April 15 through April 30 shows a strong run of perfect scores across local schools and restaurants.

The following establishments all received a 100 health inspection score during the reporting period:

Menlo Elementary School – inspected April 29
Leroy Massey Elementary – inspected April 28
Summerville Middle School – inspected April 28
Trion School – inspected April 27
Chattooga Head Start / Early Head Start – inspected April 22
Chattooga High School – inspected April 16
Domino’s Pizza in Summerville – inspected April 15

Health officials say these scores reflect proper food handling, cleanliness, and adherence to safety standards.

Residents are reminded that if they ever have concerns or complaints about a food service establishment or tourist accommodation in Chattooga County, they can contact the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department at (706) 857-3377.

May 1, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Homemade Ice Cream Sale Coming to Sloppy Floyd State Park

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A sweet springtime treat is on the way to Northwest Georgia as the Friends of Sloppy Floyd State Park prepare to host a homemade ice cream sale later this month.

The event is set for May 24th from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, located near Summerville in Chattooga County. Volunteers will be set up next to the park’s visitor center, serving a variety of homemade ice cream flavors for just $3 per cup.

Organizers say the event is a great opportunity for families and visitors to enjoy a refreshing dessert while supporting the park. Both cash and card payments will be accepted.

Visitors should note that a $10 park pass or annual pass is required for parking inside the state park.

With warmer weather settling into the region, the event offers a perfect way for residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia to spend a spring afternoon outdoors.

May 1, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Walker County Receives Statewide Award For Animal Welfare Program

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Walker County has received a 2026 Georgia County Excellence Award from ACCG, Georgia’s County Association, for innovation in county government.

The county was recognized for its spay and neuter voucher initiative, a program designed to reduce unwanted litters and improve animal welfare across Walker County.

The program provides up to 40 free vouchers each month for companion animals. Each voucher is valued at $200 and covers spay or neuter services, microchipping, and a rabies vaccination.

During the first eight months, Walker County Animal Shelter staff issued about 190 vouchers, resulting in 61 female cats, 36 male cats, 44 female dogs, and 49 male dogs being altered.

County officials say the program is already making an impact. Compared to 2024, the shelter saw a 64% decrease in owner surrenders during September, October, and November. Surrenders of kitten and puppy litters dropped by nearly 80% during that same period.

The program is funded entirely through donations, and more than 500 people are currently on the waiting list for a voucher.

Walker County was one of six counties recognized statewide for programs that improve their communities.

May 1, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Threat at Chattooga High Deemed Non-Credible; Lockdown Lifted

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An investigation into a reported threat on Thursday at Chattooga High School has determined there was no credible danger to students or staff.

May 1, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Moon Pie Hike Set for May 2 at Sloppy Floyd State Park

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An evening under the stars is planned in Chattooga County as James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park hosts a special Moon Pie Hike on May 2nd at 7:30 PM.

The guided hike will take participants on an easy walk around the lower lake, where they’ll enjoy Moon Pies and hot cocoa while watching the moonrise from the lower dam.

Park officials recommend bringing a flashlight, a blanket to sit on, and wearing comfortable shoes. Guests will meet park rangers outside the park office before the hike begins.

The cost is $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is required for parking. Registration is also required in advance by calling the park office at 706-857-0826.

The event offers a relaxing way for families and visitors across Northwest Georgia to enjoy the outdoors and a unique nighttime experience.

April 30, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga High School Placed On Lockdown After Threat Reported

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UPDATE (4:10 PM)

Update regarding the threat earlier today involving the Chattooga High School campus. Following a thorough investigation conducted in coordination with the Sheriff’s office, the FBI, and GEMA Homeland Security, the reported threat has been deemed non-credible. Authorities have also determined that it is connected to similar false threats reported at schools on a wide scale. At all times, the safety of our students and staff remained our top priority, and we appreciate the cooperation and patience shown by our school community as safety protocols were followed.

We are grateful for the swift response and continued support of our law enforcement partners. If any additional information becomes necessary to share, we will provide further updates.

Thank you,

Dr. Michelle Helie

Chattooga High School was placed on lockdown today after administrators received a threat involving the high school campus, according to Chattooga County School Superintendent Dr. Michelle Helie.

School officials say the threat was taken seriously, and immediate safety protocols were put into place. Law enforcement responded to the campus and remains on site while the matter is investigated.

Dr. Helie said students and staff are safe, and there is no confirmed immediate danger on campus at this time. Instruction is continuing, and regular school operations are proceeding as scheduled.

Out of an abundance of caution, the campus will remain on lockdown for the rest of the school day. Student dismissal is expected to take place at the regular time using normal procedures unless school officials announce otherwise.

Parents and community members are being asked not to come to campus unless necessary for regular operations or unless specifically directed to do so, as extra traffic could interfere with law enforcement and school safety procedures.

Additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.

April 30, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Arrest Report – Thursday – April 30, 2026

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Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, April 30, 2026:

April 30, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Morning Storms Give Way to Drier Afternoon Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia

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Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are waking up to rounds of showers and a few embedded thunderstorms early Thursday, but conditions are expected to steadily improve as the day goes on.

April 30, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Tick Bites Sending More Americans to the ER, CDC Warns

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Health officials are raising concerns as new data shows tick bites are sending more people to emergency rooms at the highest rate in nearly a decade.

April 30, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Free GED Accelerated Academy Coming to GNTC’s Floyd County Campus

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Georgia Northwestern Technical College is offering a free GED Accelerated Academy this summer at the Floyd County Campus in Rome.

The three-day program is scheduled for June 4th through June 6th, 2026, and is designed to help eligible students earn their GED at no cost.

Participants will receive free GED instruction, practice tests, GED testing, meals, and snacks. Space is limited, and registration is required by May 12th.

Those who register must also attend one of two assessment dates: May 16th or May 21st.

The program is open to adults age 18 and older, and a government-issued ID is required.