
Despite several rounds of rainfall across Northwest Georgia in recent days, drought conditions continue to persist in Chattooga County, according to weather officials and drought monitoring data.

Despite several rounds of rainfall across Northwest Georgia in recent days, drought conditions continue to persist in Chattooga County, according to weather officials and drought monitoring data.

Families looking for a fun summer activity can take part in a Family Bingo event next month at the Chattooga Library in Summerville.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Chattooga Library located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
According to organizers with the Sara Hightower Regional Library System, the activity is designed for all ages and participants will have the opportunity to compete for prizes during the evening.
The event is open to the public, and organizers say families, children, and community members are encouraged to attend.
For more information, contact the Chattooga Library at 706-857-2553.

Governor Brian Kemp has authorized the deployment of Georgia National Guard units, including troops from Northwest Georgia, to Washington, D.C., as part of an extended public safety support mission continuing through the end of 2026.
According to information released about the operation, units from armories in Calhoun, Canton, Cedartown, and Dalton are among those supporting Joint Task Force–District of Columbia, known as JTF-DC.
The mission was originally authorized in late 2025 and has now been extended through December 31, 2026.
Georgia National Guard members are assisting with public safety operations in the nation’s capital by providing a visible security presence and supporting law enforcement through logistical, administrative, and medical assistance.
Officials say Georgia Guard soldiers were recently involved in assisting Washington, D.C. authorities during a Metro system theft and assault incident, where Guardsmen reportedly provided immediate medical aid and helped local police at the scene.
Governor Kemp’s office says the deployment is part of ongoing coordination efforts to help maintain safety and support law enforcement operations in the District of Columbia.

Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available for eligible small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Chattooga County affected by ongoing drought conditions.

A Summerville man was arrested by the Georgia State Patrol over the weekend on a charge of driving under the influence.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 34-year-old Kevante Lamar Baldwin of Turner Street in Summerville was taken into custody Saturday following a traffic stop in the area of North Second Avenue and West Third Street in Rome.
Arrest reports indicate Baldwin was charged with DUI after authorities determined he was over the legal limit for alcohol.
Baldwin was later released from custody after posting bond.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, March 24, 2026:

Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for several days of unsettled weather as a persistent summer-like pattern brings widespread showers and thunderstorms through much of the upcoming week.

Chattooga County has expanded the boundaries of its Urban Redevelopment Area, adding new parcels of land to the county’s long-running revitalization initiative.
According to county records, the update was approved through a formal resolution signed by the county commissioner. The amendment adds additional parcels in the northern section of the existing redevelopment zone and updates the county’s official redevelopment map.
County officials say the move is intended to support economic development, encourage housing opportunities, and improve the overall quality of life for residents. Leaders also say the expansion creates a more cohesive redevelopment footprint and provides greater flexibility for future planning and investment efforts.
While no specific projects tied to the newly added parcels have been announced, officials say the changes are designed to help position the county for long-term growth and future redevelopment opportunities.
The amendment reportedly took effect immediately upon adoption and is now part of the county’s official redevelopment framework.

A 54-year-old Bethlehem, Georgia man was arrested in Rome after investigators say he sent obscene photos and messages to an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old female.
According to reports, Kenneth Stephens Ray allegedly communicated with the undercover officer by text message on April 28 and April 29, 2026, believing he was speaking with a minor. Authorities say the messages included obscene images and sexually explicit comments.
Ray is charged with two counts of furnishing obscene materials to a minor and one count of obscene internet contact with a minor.

As Memorial Day approaches, many Americans pause to honor the nation’s military heroes — but it’s important to understand the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
Memorial Day, observed each May, is dedicated to remembering the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is a solemn day of remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country.
Veterans Day, observed each November, honors all military veterans who have served in the Armed Forces, whether during wartime or peacetime.
Veterans organizations often remind the public that while veterans appreciate support and gratitude, Memorial Day is specifically meant to honor fallen service members and reflect on their sacrifice.