Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Drops To 3.3 Percent

Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate unchanged at 5.6 percent, Rome Down

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.

Happening Tomorrow: Summerville Main Street’s Ducky Derby Returns Saturday, May 9

Summerville Main Street’s Ducky Derby is happening tomorrow, Saturday, May 9, outside the Summerville Depot.

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City Of Summerville Hiring Gas Maintenance Worker

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.

 

Chattooga County Senior Center Hosting May Memorial Day Raffle Fundraiser

The Chattooga County Senior Center is hosting a May Memorial Day raffle ticket fundraiser to support local seniors.

Tickets are $1 each or six for $5 and may be purchased at Bryant & Sons or at the Chattooga County Senior Center Monday through Friday from 8 AM until 2 PM.

Participants will have a chance to win either three John Wayne books and two framed postage stamps, or a Nostalgia KPM200 2.5-ounce kettle popcorn maker, which will include one starter pack of popcorn.

The winner will be announced Friday, May 29, through Facebook Live and by phone.

Highland Avenue In Summerville To Close For Ongoing Sewer Project

The City of Summerville has announced a temporary closure on Highland Avenue due to an ongoing sewer project.

Highland Avenue will be closed to through traffic from Monday, May 11th through Friday, May 15th, between East First Avenue and Sixth Avenue. The closure will be in effect daily from 7:00 AM until 8:00 PM.

Residents and businesses within the closure area will still have access to their properties, but minor delays should be expected.

Motorists are advised to use Highway 27 northbound and southbound as the primary alternate route during the closure.

Arrest Report – Thursday – May 7, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, May 7, 2026:

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Bus Driver Shortage Delays Chattooga County School Bus Route

The Chattooga County School District reported Wednesday morning that Bus 104 was running one hour behind schedule due to a bus driver shortage.

The delay highlights an ongoing need for school bus drivers in Chattooga County.

The school system is currently hiring drivers, encouraging residents to help provide safe and reliable transportation for local students.

Officials say the job offers a consistent schedule, meaningful work, midday free time, and opportunities for retirees or those seeking part-time hours.

Interested applicants can contact the Chattooga County Board of Education at 706-857-3447 or 706-857-3440. The board office is located at 33 Middle School Road in Summerville.

Summerville Woman Arrested On Obstruction Charge During Warrant Service

The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Summerville woman last week after deputies say she interfered while officers were attempting to serve an arrest warrant at a residence on Airport Road.

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Chattooga County EMA Hosting Community Blood Drive May 15

The Chattooga County Emergency Management Agency is encouraging residents to roll up their sleeves and help save lives during an upcoming community blood drive.

The blood drive will take place Friday, May 15, from 12:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Chattooga County EMA building located at 170 Farrar Drive in Summerville.

The event is being held in partnership with Blood Assurance under the theme “Give Local, Save Local.”

Organizers encourage donors to eat a good meal before donating, avoid energy drinks, drink extra water, and bring a photo ID to the event.

Blood Assurance is also offering an incentive during the campaign period. Donors participating between May 1st and May 15th will be entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card, with one winner selected per community.

Community members can scan the QR code on the event flyer to register or learn more about donation opportunities.

Jefferson’s in Summerville Names Briana Carmon 2026 Teacher Of The Year

Jefferson’s Restaurant in Summerville has announced Briana Carmon, Agriculture teacher at Summerville Middle School, as the 2026 Jefferson’s Summerville Teacher of the Year.

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