Sex Crime Charges Among Latest Chattooga County Indictments

Sex crime charges are among the latest indictments returned by a Chattooga County grand jury, with two Summerville men named in the cases.

According to the indictment report, Ayden Matthew Ard, of 271 Scoggins Street in Summerville, was indicted on charges of statutory rape and sodomy. Court records cited in the report state the alleged victim is between 13 and 16 years old and younger than the accused. Also indicted was Michael Lamar Battles, of 702 Scoggins Street in Summerville, on charges of child molestation and grooming of a minor.

The indictments are part of the latest group of felony cases returned in Chattooga County. An indictment is a formal accusation, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

CRC Chattooga to Host Volunteer and Donor Appreciation Dinner April 25

CRC Chattooga is inviting volunteers, donors, churches, and mission supporters to a special Volunteer and Donor Appreciation Dinner on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the North Summerville Gym, located behind the current CRC Food Pantry.

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Busy Week Ahead for Chattooga High School Athletics and Events

Chattooga High School is gearing up for a busy week of athletic competition and school events as the countdown to graduation continues.

According to school officials, Track and Field athletes will compete in the Region meet on Monday at Gordon Central. The tennis team will be in action Tuesday through Friday in the State Playoffs, while the baseball team is also scheduled to compete in the State Playoffs from Wednesday through Saturday.

In addition to athletics, the school will host its Choral Spring Concert on Friday, April 24 at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria.

School leaders note that graduation is now just five weeks away, with several activities planned in the coming weeks as the school year winds down.

Officials also announced that an April fire drill is scheduled for Tuesday at 10 a.m.

 

Cold Front Brings Light Rain, Elevated Fire Danger To Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia

A cold front moved into Northwest Georgia early Sunday, bringing only limited rainfall to Chattooga County and surrounding areas. While a few scattered showers passed through during the morning hours, most communities across the region are expected to receive very little rain, with many spots seeing less than a tenth of an inch. Even in the areas that pick up the most rainfall, totals are not expected to be enough to make a meaningful dent in the ongoing dry conditions.

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Summerville Seeks Proposals for Wastewater Biosolids Hauling and Disposal

The City of Summerville is now accepting proposals from qualified contractors for the hauling and disposal of biosolids from its wastewater treatment facilities.

City officials say the request for proposals is aimed at securing a reliable partner to handle the routine removal, transportation, and proper disposal of biosolids, while ensuring full compliance with state and federal environmental regulations, including standards set by the EPA and Georgia EPD.

The selected contractor will be responsible for managing biosolids generated at municipal facilities as part of the city’s ongoing environmental operations.

Proposals must be submitted by 2 p.m. on April 19, 2026, at Summerville City Hall, located at 120 Georgia Avenue.

Officials say complete details, including technical specifications, insurance requirements, and bid forms, are available through the city.

Tiny Tribe Cheer Camp Set for June at Chattooga High School

Local families will have a chance to kick off summer with energy and excitement as the Tiny Tribe Cheer Camp returns to Chattooga High School June 15–16.

The two-day camp will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day and is open to children ages 3 to 13. Participants will learn cheer fundamentals, build confidence, and enjoy a fun, high-energy environment alongside Chattooga cheerleaders and coaches.

Organizers say the camp is designed for all experience levels, with a focus on introducing young athletes to the basics of cheerleading in a supportive setting.

The cost to attend is $50, which includes instruction, activities, and camp participation.

The camp will be held at Chattooga High School, located at 989 Highway 114 in Summerville. Participants must be potty trained to attend, and registration is now open.

The Tiny Tribe Cheer Camp has become a popular annual tradition, drawing young cheerleaders from across the area eager to learn new skills and have fun.

Summerville Collective To Host Yard Sale and BBQ Fundraiser April 25

The Summerville Collective is inviting the community out for a yard sale and BBQ fundraiser later this month.

The event is set for Saturday, April 25 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 83 Highway 48 in Summerville. Organizers say attendees can expect a variety of unique items for sale along with food from the “From the Ashes BBQ and Brisket” food truck.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Summerville Collective, a Christian-based homeschool collaborative that provides academic and enrichment programs through Connect City Church.

Those interested in participating can rent a table space for $10 to sell their own items and keep the proceeds. Donations for the yard sale are also being accepted, with organizers asking donors to label items accordingly.

Organizers say the fundraiser is a great opportunity for the community to support local education efforts while enjoying food, fellowship, and bargain shopping.

CHS Class of 1996 Planning 30-Year Reunion

The Chattooga High School Class of 1996 is beginning plans for its upcoming 30-year class reunion.

Organizers say the reunion is tentatively scheduled for October 3, and efforts are underway to connect with as many classmates as possible.

A Facebook group titled “CHS Class of 1996 – 30-year Reunion” has been created to share updates and information. Class members are encouraged to join the group to stay informed as plans continue to develop.

For those not on Facebook, organizers say you can reach out by email to Ben Sellers at nautica-larch@yahoo.com to receive additional details.

Classmates are encouraged to get involved early as planning continues for what is expected to be a memorable reunion event.

Chattooga High School Announces Honor Graduates for Class of 2026

Chattooga High School has released the list of honor graduates for the Class of 2026, recognizing dozens of students for their academic achievement and dedication.

Those named as honor graduates include: Addie Veatch, Alexandria Dilbeck, Alexis Womack, Alliyah Farr, Benjamin Woods, Braxson Cook-Bevels, Brinley Thomas, Brock Cooper, Cadence Nuckolls, Cameryn Smith, Cooper Hampton, Demya Williams, Dixie Shelton, Donovan Collins, Elizabeth Laird, Ensley Carr, Grace Shirley, Hailey Morris, Haley Maddux, Hannah Hasty, Izabella Burdick, Kahlyn Helton, Kasen Elsberry, Kendal Zuniga, Leah Cochran, Leeanna Moseley, Lileah Braden, Madison Koonce, Mary Weedon, Mason Buchanan, Max Perez, Naomi Scruggs, Pedro Lopez, Riley Willis, Ruby Kilgore, Sky Burrage, and Zachary Hutcherson.

School officials say these students have demonstrated strong academic performance throughout their high school careers and are being recognized as they prepare to graduate later this spring.

The honor graduate designation highlights the commitment and hard work of students who have excelled in the classroom and maintained high academic standards.

Chattooga County Historical Society To Host Trivia-Filled Spring Meeting Tomorrow

The Chattooga County Historical Society is inviting the community to enjoy an afternoon of local history and fun tomorrow, Sunday, April 19.

The quarterly meeting will be held at 2 p.m. at the Summerville Depot and will feature a Chattooga County History Trivia Contest. Organizers say attendees will be divided into teams for a lively program designed to test local knowledge while also sharing interesting facts about the county.

Refreshments and prizes will be available, and the event is open to the public. Organizers say it is especially geared toward those who enjoy the historical photos and local history posts shared online.

Residents are encouraged to come out, take part, and enjoy a community event centered around Chattooga County’s rich history.