Dangerous and potentially life-threatening heat is expected across Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia today as an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect from noon until 8 p.m.
A 23-year-old woman was arrested on DUI charges after a Chattooga County Sheriff’s deputy observed her vehicle repeatedly cross traffic lines during an early morning traffic stop in Summerville.
As families prepare for Independence Day celebrations, AAA is reminding homeowners that fireworks can bring more than safety risks — they can also lead to costly property damage and liability issues.
According to AAA – The Auto Club Group, fireworks were linked to 11 reported deaths and 14,700 injuries in 2024. Fireworks also started an estimated 32,302 fires in 2023, including 3,760 structure fires and $142 million in direct property damage.
AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says even well-planned fireworks displays can end in injury or property damage. AAA recommends homeowners review their insurance policies before the holiday to understand what is covered, including fire damage, guest injuries, detached structures and liability claims.
AAA also urges residents to keep fireworks away from homes, vehicles, decks, dry grass and trees; soak used fireworks in water before disposal; keep a water hose or bucket nearby; and never allow young children to handle fireworks, including sparklers. AAA says the safest option is attending a professional fireworks display.
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is inviting business owners, professionals, and community members to its monthly 5:30 Club networking event on Thursday, July 9, from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Jefferson’s Restaurant in Summerville.
The informal gathering is designed to give Chamber members and guests an opportunity to network, share ideas, discuss local business, and build new relationships in a relaxed setting. Organizers say the event has been rebranded following a successful launch and will now be held on the second Thursday of each month.
Attendees can enjoy complimentary appetizers while connecting with fellow business leaders and community members. The event is open to anyone interested in networking and learning more about the local business community.
For more information about the 5:30 Club or membership opportunities, contact the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is reminding residents that if they are thinking about adding a pet to the family, adoption can make a life-changing difference for both the animal and the adopter.
Shelter officials say their facility remains full and many dogs and cats are waiting for a loving, permanent home. By choosing to adopt, families not only gain a loyal companion but also help create space for other animals in need of care and shelter.
The shelter encourages prospective pet owners to consider the many benefits of adopting a rescue animal. Many shelter pets are affectionate, grateful, and eager to become part of a family. Officials say every adoption gives an animal a second chance while helping reduce overcrowding in local shelters.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is located in Summerville. Residents interested in meeting adoptable pets or learning more about the adoption process can contact the shelter at 706-857-0679.
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has announced that the county is accepting sealed bids for a major road resurfacing project that will improve more than 18.5 miles of county roads through funding provided by the Georgia Department of Transportation’s Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant (LMIG) and Local Road Assistance (LRA) programs.
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has announced a public meeting to gather comments and discuss a proposed temporary moratorium on certain non-traditional development projects within the county.
According to a public notice released by the Commissioner’s Office, the proposed moratorium would apply to projects including cargo container homes and structures, tiny home developments, multi-service community developments, and other similar non-traditional residential or mixed-use developments that may be identified during the county’s review process.
County officials say the purpose of the proposed moratorium is to provide time to review existing land use regulations, evaluate the potential impacts of these types of developments, and determine whether changes to county ordinances are needed to protect the health, safety, welfare, and orderly growth of the community.
The public meeting is scheduled for Friday, July 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, located at 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville. Residents, property owners, developers, and other interested parties are encouraged to attend and provide input before any action is taken on the proposed moratorium.
The Commissioner said the meeting is intended to ensure the public has an opportunity to be informed and participate in the discussion before any decision is made regarding the proposal.
Georgia Highlands College has announced its Spring 2026 President’s List and Dean’s List, recognizing students who achieved outstanding academic success during the spring semester.
One of Chattooga County’s biggest summer traditions returns today as the City of Summerville hosts its annual Celebrate Independence Festival and Fireworks Show at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center.
The free community celebration begins at 6 p.m. at 33 Middle School Road and will feature live music, family activities, food vendors, contests and one of the largest fireworks displays in Northwest Georgia. The fireworks show is scheduled for 10 p.m.
Families can enjoy the free Kid’s Zone from 6 until 9 p.m., with waterslides, inflatables, face painting, sack races, badminton, volleyball, Jenga and more. Other activities include the Corn Hole Tournament, the Patriotic Foot Parade for children at 6:35 p.m., and the Summerville Natural Gas and Menlo Lucky’s Hot Dog Eating Contest at 7:30 p.m.
Entertainment begins at 6:45 p.m. with Parker Thomas, followed by The Whole Fam Damily at 8 p.m.
Parking is free, and visitors are encouraged to arrive early, bring lawn chairs or blankets, and enjoy an evening of food, music, family fun and fireworks.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, July 1, 2026: