Social Security and SSI Recipients Can Expect Several Payment Dates in July

Millions of Americans who receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will receive their July payments according to the Social Security Administration’s regular payment schedule, with one important change affecting some recipients.

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New Georgia Program Aims to Protect Farmland From Development

Georgia is taking steps to slow the loss of farmland as rapid growth continues across the state.

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Arrest Report – Sunday – June 28, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, June 28, 2026:

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Hot And Mostly Dry Weather Continues Across Chattooga County

Expect another hot and humid day across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, with only a limited chance for relief from scattered afternoon thunderstorms.

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Sheriff Warns Residents About Phone Scam Targeting Chattooga County

Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader is warning residents about a phone scam targeting local citizens.

According to Sheriff Schrader, the Sheriff’s Office received four reports in one day from residents who were contacted by scammers claiming money was owed for missed court dates, civil matters, or bond-related issues. In one case, a victim reportedly lost $2,000.

Sheriff Schrader emphasized that the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, and other legitimate law enforcement agencies, will never call residents and demand payment over the telephone. Law enforcement will not ask anyone to put money on gift cards, prepaid cards, or any other type of card to resolve court issues or bond someone out of jail.

Residents who receive suspicious calls should hang up and contact law enforcement directly using a verified phone number. Sheriff Schrader is asking the public to share the warning with family, friends, and neighbors to help prevent others from becoming victims.

Dangerous Heat Expected Across Northwest Georgia This Week

A prolonged stretch of dangerous heat is expected to impact Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the 90s and heat index values frequently reaching between 100 and 105 degrees.

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Chattooga High School Football Program Seeking Business Ads and Player Dedications

Local businesses, families, and supporters of Chattooga High School Football have an opportunity to be part of the 2026 football program while helping support the Indians during the upcoming season.

Businesses can purchase advertising space in the full-color football program, with options including a full-page ad for $125, a half-page ad for $75, a quarter-page ad for $40, or a business card-sized ad for $25. Businesses may submit a ready-made advertisement or provide text and photos for the Computer Science Club to design. A $10 design fee applies for ads requiring layout assistance. The deadline for business advertisements is Friday, July 17.

Families and friends can also recognize student-athletes by purchasing a dedication in the football program. Dedications are available at the same pricing levels—full page, half page, quarter page, and business card size—and may include photos and personalized messages. The deadline for student-athlete dedications is Saturday, July 11.

Both forms list the submission email as spiritshop@chattooga.k12.ga.us. Additional information is available by contacting the Chattooga High School Computer Science Club at 706-857-2402, extension 3141.

USAA Drivers in Georgia to See Auto Insurance Rate Reduction

More than 200,000 Georgia drivers insured through the USAA Group of Companies are expected to see lower auto insurance premiums following a newly approved rate reduction announced by Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King. The overall decrease averages about 2.6 percent and is expected to save Georgia policyholders more than $33 million statewide.

The rate reductions vary by company within the USAA group, with decreases of 4.7 percent for Garrison Property and Casualty Insurance Company, 4.5 percent for USAA Casualty Insurance Company, and 2.4 percent for USAA General Indemnity Company. Commissioner King said the reductions reflect a more competitive insurance marketplace and ongoing efforts to improve affordability for Georgia families.

In addition to the lower rates, USAA has increased its SafePilot participation discount from 10 percent to 15 percent, giving eligible policyholders another opportunity to reduce their premiums. State officials say the latest filing continues a trend of recent auto insurance rate reductions in Georgia as regulators work to increase competition and lower costs for consumers.

Georgia Law Allows Consumer Fireworks, But Safety Should Come First

As Independence Day approaches, many families across Northwest Georgia are preparing to celebrate with fireworks. While Georgia law allows the use of many consumer fireworks, officials are reminding residents that safety should remain the top priority.

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Rising Temperatures Could Bring Higher Georgia Power Bills for Many Families

As temperatures climb into the 90s across Northwest Georgia this week, many Georgia Power customers could see their electric bills rise as air conditioners work harder to keep homes cool.

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