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June 27, 2026

State Identifies Three Georgia Beaches With Elevated Fecal Bacteria Levels

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Anyone planning a trip to the Georgia coast this summer may want to check beach conditions before heading into the water.

State officials have identified 15 miles of beachfront on Tybee Island, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island where elevated levels of enterococci, a type of fecal bacteria, have exceeded recreational water quality standards. The affected beach segments have been classified as “not supporting” recreational use under the Clean Water Act.

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, enterococci bacteria can originate from wastewater, failing septic systems, stormwater runoff, wildlife, and pet waste. While the bacteria itself is used as an indicator, elevated levels may signal the presence of other disease-causing organisms that can increase the risk of illness for swimmers.

State officials are working to develop cleanup plans for the affected waters, and public comments on those plans are being accepted through July 16. Before visiting Georgia’s beaches, officials recommend checking the latest advisories through the Georgia Healthy Beaches program

June 27, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Spark Day Happening Today In Summerville

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A community event aimed at supporting local special needs programs and Special Olympics athletes is happening today in Summerville.

“Spark Day” will be held today, Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park. The event is being organized by the Speak Life Chattooga County Special Needs Support Group.

Organizers say the fundraiser will support adults participating in Special Olympics activities, along with children involved in summer programs. Community members, vendors, and local resource groups are expected to take part, with no vendor fees for the event.

Spark Day will feature local vendors, baked goods, art, jewelry, T-shirts, coffee, and community resources. Organizers also hope the event helps families connect with programs and services available throughout Northwest Georgia.

The goal is to make Spark Day an annual community tradition focused on inclusion, fun, and support for special needs families across the region.

June 27, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Chattooga County Unemployment Rate Edges Up In May

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Chattooga County’s unemployment rate edged slightly higher in May, according to newly released figures from the Georgia Department of Labor.

The county posted a jobless rate of 3.8 percent for May, up from 3.7 percent in April. Despite the small monthly increase, the local rate remains relatively low as Georgia continues to report strong employment numbers statewide.

Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said May traditionally brings a new wave of workers into the job market as graduates begin looking for employment. She said Georgia’s growing workforce remains one of the reasons companies continue to invest across the state.

Statewide, Georgia has now surpassed 5 million jobs, a milestone labor officials say reflects continued opportunity for both new workers and experienced professionals.

For Chattooga County, the latest numbers show a modest increase in unemployment heading into the summer months, while the overall labor market remains steady.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

City of Summerville Announces Memorial Day Closings

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The City of Summerville has announced that all non-emergency city offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.

City officials say the closure is part of the annual observance honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

While administrative offices will be closed for the holiday, emergency services including the Summerville Police Department and Summerville Fire Department will continue operating as normal throughout the weekend and holiday.

Regular business hours for city offices will resume on Tuesday, May 26.

City leaders are encouraging residents to have a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend while taking time to remember and honor America’s fallen heroes.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

AAA Warns Memorial Day Drivers About Risky Cost-Cutting Habits As Gas Prices Rise

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AAA is warning Georgia drivers not to let higher gas prices lead to risky decisions behind the wheel this Memorial Day weekend.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

City of Menlo Plans Independence Day Celebration

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The City of Menlo is preparing for a full day of Independence Day festivities on Saturday, July 4th, with a community celebration and parade planned for residents and visitors.

According to information released by the city, activities will take place from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., with the annual Fourth of July parade scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.

Organizers say the celebration will include vendors, inflatables, and additional family-friendly activities throughout the day.

Community members are encouraged to come out and enjoy the holiday celebration while supporting local vendors and taking part in one of Menlo’s longtime Independence Day traditions.

Additional event details are expected to be announced as the holiday approaches.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Walker County Animal Shelter Temporarily Closes After Canine Distemper Case

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The Walker County Animal Shelter will be closed for at least 30 days after a litter of surrendered puppies tested positive for canine distemper virus.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Asian Longhorned Tick Confirmed in Georgia and Alabama

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Agriculture and animal health officials in Georgia and Alabama are urging livestock owners, pet owners, and outdoor enthusiasts to be on alert after the Asian Longhorned Tick was confirmed in multiple counties across the region.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

Trion 6U Baseball Team Caps Off Undefeated 10-0 Season

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The Trion 6U baseball team has plenty to celebrate after finishing the season with a perfect 10-0 record.

The young team went undefeated from start to finish, earning recognition as the only recreational baseball team in Chattooga County to complete the season without a loss.

The roster includes Adrian Bolton, Cru Womack, Josiah Collins, Ezrah Johnston, Kade Edgerton, Peyton Gilreath, Lancyn Whitten, Koleman Abernathy, Aiden Rogers, Oaklee Blackmon, Kamryn Murphy, Amaris McCutchins, Ryan Lowrance, and Aiden Wallin.

Coaches Sandy Abernathy, Randall Abernathy, Jason Rogers, Brandy Rogers, and Mason Gilreath helped lead the team through the memorable season.

Congratulations to the players, coaches, and families on an outstanding year for Trion 6U baseball.

May 22, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

CRBI Swim Guide Returns for Memorial Day Weekend

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The Coosa River Basin Initiative’s Swim Guide will return for the summer season beginning Memorial Day weekend.