Chattooga County Authorities Searching for Missing Menlo Woman

The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating 23-year-old Gabrielle Haley Sipes, who was reported missing earlier this week.

Sipes was last seen around 6 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2026, in the Menlo area of Chattooga County, with investigators saying her possible last known location may be in Northeast Georgia. She is described as a white female, approximately 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighing about 135 pounds, with red hair and blue eyes. What she was wearing at the time she was last seen is unknown.

Family members report that Sipes is autistic but verbal. Authorities urge anyone who may have seen her or has information on her whereabouts to contact Chattooga County E-911 at 706-857-0750 immediately.

City of Summerville Seeks Bids for Outdoor Basketball Court Pavilion

The City of Summerville is inviting sealed bids for the construction and installation of an outdoor basketball court pavilion, a project aimed at enhancing local recreational facilities in the community. Bids will be received at Summerville City Hall, 120 Georgia Ave., Summerville, GA 30747 until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026. After that time, all bids will be opened publicly in the City Hall Council Room for review.

Interested contractors must submit their proposals in sealed envelopes clearly marked “RFB-2026-120-Outdoor Basketball Court Pavilion.” All bids must remain valid for 60 business days and will be reviewed by designated city officials before a contract is awarded. Bids received after the deadline will not be considered for the project.

Dry Weekend Start Followed by Widespread Rain Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia

Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia will enjoy dry and mild conditions through Saturday, with afternoon highs generally reaching the 60s. Higher elevations may remain in the 40s and 50s, but overall temperatures will stay above seasonal averages.

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Two Arrested on Drug Charges Following Traffic Stop in Chattooga County

Two people were arrested on drug-related charges following a traffic stop in Chattooga County earlier this month, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.

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February is American Heart Month: NWGA Public Health Urges Heart-Healthy Habits

February is American Heart Month, an annual observance focused on raising awareness about cardiovascular health and encouraging habits that protect the heart.

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Summerville Woman Arrested for DUI After Vehicle Found in Ditch

A Summerville woman was arrested on charges of Driving Under the Influence after officers responded to a vehicle partially lodged in a ditch near Circle K on February 10, 2026, according to a Summerville Police Department incident report.

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Arrest Report – Friday – February 13, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, February 13, 2026:

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Fire Danger Today – Heavy Rain This Weekend

A Fire Danger Statement is in effect Friday for Chattooga County and all of Northwest Georgia as very dry air overspreads the region. Relative humidity values are expected to fall into the low to mid-20 percent range Friday afternoon, creating favorable conditions for wildfire ignition and spread. While winds are forecast to remain generally light, officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and use extra caution with anything that could spark a fire.

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Rising Georgia Power Bills Spark Frustration in Chattooga County as PSC Makeup Shifts

Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, many residents say steadily rising Georgia Power bills are placing increased pressure on household budgets, particularly for low- to moderate-income families and seniors on fixed incomes.

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Vegetable Gardening Class Set for February 25 in Chattooga County

Residents interested in growing their own vegetables can take part in an upcoming Vegetable Gardening Class hosted at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center.

The class will be held February 25 at 6 p.m. at the Agricultural Center, located at 40 Middle School Road. Participants will learn about site preparation, soil fertility, planting practices, and more to help prepare for the upcoming growing season.

Those wishing to attend are asked to call 706-857-0744 to reserve a spot. Organizers note that the program is offered through UGA Extension – Chattooga County and is an equal opportunity event. Anyone needing reasonable accommodation or language access services should contact the Chattooga County Extension Office at least three weeks prior to the program date.

For more information or to register, call 706-857-0744 or email chattooga.extension@uga.edu.