A major contraband investigation has led to the seizure of nearly a kilogram of methamphetamine and multiple cell phones from a Georgia prison inmate’s cell, according to authorities.
The City of Summerville has taken another step toward adding a new family-friendly attraction by approving a contract for a splash pad at J.R. “Dick” Dowdy Park.
During a recent meeting, the Summerville City Council approved awarding the project to Gametime at a cost of approximately $399,948.80. City officials said the splash pad is expected to enhance recreational opportunities for local residents and visitors.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters discussed the project with council members prior to the vote, noting that the splash pad represents a significant investment in community recreation. The facility is expected to provide a safe and enjoyable place for children and families to cool off during the summer months.
The addition of the splash pad is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to improve parks and recreational amenities. Once completed, the new attraction will become a centerpiece of Dowdy Park and is expected to serve residents for years to come.
City leaders expressed optimism about the project and its potential to enhance quality of life while providing another destination for families in the community.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 13, 2026:
A hot and mainly dry Saturday is expected across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, with temperatures climbing to around 92 degrees this afternoon. When humidity is factored in, heat index values could approach 99 degrees, making it feel significantly hotter during the peak afternoon hours.
Summerville Parks and Recreation is sharing information about a new statewide opportunity for anyone interested in becoming a sports official.
The Georgia Recreation and Park Association has partnered with the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation to offer sports officials training for anyone 16 years of age or older who is willing to complete the online training.
The program includes sports officials training, medical insurance, liability insurance, background checks, and uniform and equipment funding. The upfront cost to take the online training course is just $20.
The first training course available is for baseball and softball umpires. Additional training videos for tackle football, flag football, and soccer are expected in July, with volleyball and basketball training videos scheduled for August.
Those interested can scan the QR code shared by Summerville Parks and Recreation to get started.
Fans of the legendary country music group Alabama are invited to Fort Payne for Alabama Fan Appreciation Week 2026, a three-day celebration of live music, songwriting, and special fan experiences.
The event will take place June 18 through June 20 in Fort Payne, the hometown of Alabama, bringing together fans for a weekend filled with music, memories, and Southern hospitality.
The celebration begins Thursday, June 18, with Teddy Gentry’s “Singing with the Stars” Talent Contest, showcasing rising talent while benefiting the DeKalb County Children’s Advocacy Center.
On Friday, June 19, Toast Fore the Jam returns with a laid-back golf event featuring four-person teams, music from a DJ, lunch, swag, and plenty of fun, Alabama-style.
Also on Friday and Saturday, June 19 and 20, the Alabama Songwriters Showcase will bring award-winning Nashville songwriters to the stage to perform hit songs and share the stories behind them. The showcase will be hosted by Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry.
Organizers say tickets are limited for several events, and fans are encouraged to plan ahead.
With pool season underway, local residents are being reminded by Pine Ridge Outdoor Supply in Lyerly that there are several steps homeowners can take if they open their pool and find green water.
The business recommends first removing leaves, sticks, and visible debris, then brushing the entire pool, including walls, floors, steps, ladders, and corners, to help break up algae. Homeowners should also vacuum if possible, run the pump continuously until the water clears, and clean or backwash the filter so it can properly remove dead algae.
For a 21,000-gallon pool with visible algae, Pine Ridge says adding about two gallons of 12.5% liquid chlorine can begin fighting the algae before a full water test is completed. The chlorine should be poured slowly in front of a return jet while the pump is running.
Residents are also encouraged to get their pool water tested before adding anything else.
Pine Ridge Outdoor Supply offers pool water testing and a full line of pool supplies, allowing residents to shop locally instead of driving to Rome or Chattanooga.
Organizers are asking for community support as preparations continue for the annual Back to School Bash for Trion and Chattooga students.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 4 until 6 p.m. and will include music, free back-to-school haircuts, shaved ice treats, community resources, and support for students preparing for the new school year.
Maisha Ludy with Chattooga Family Connection says school supply donations are still needed. Items currently being requested include notebook paper, binders, dividers, markers, colored pencils, highlighters, composition books, glue sticks, and scissors.
Those who would like to donate supplies may contact Ludy at 706-388-9849 or email maishaludy@gmail.com.
Monetary donations are also being accepted. Donations may be made at United Community Bank to Chattooga County Collaborative, through CashApp at $MaishaLudy, or through Venmo at @Maisha-Ludy.
Organizers say every donation, large or small, will help support local students and families as they prepare for the upcoming school year.
A local nonprofit organization is inviting students and families to learn more about a unique educational opportunity planned for 2027.
Dreamers Outreach, Inc. announced plans for an educational and inspirational trip to the Obama Presidential Library in June 2027. The organization says the trip is designed to expose young people to leadership, history, education, and service while encouraging them to pursue their goals and dreams.
According to the organization, 10 students in grades 8 through 12 will be selected to participate in the experience.
An informational meeting for interested students and parents is scheduled for August 8 at 2 p.m. at Kuzzins, located at 105 Hemlock Street in Summerville. Organizers will discuss trip details, expectations, and future planning efforts.
Dreamers Outreach is also seeking community support for the project. The organization is encouraging parents and volunteers interested in serving as chaperones, sponsors who would like to support a student, and community members willing to assist through donations and fundraising efforts to get involved.
Organization leaders say community support will be essential in making the educational trip a reality and creating a meaningful experience for participating students.
The 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest is happening today in Trion.
The event, presented by the Family Crisis Center, will be held from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. today, Saturday, June 13, at the Trion Recreation Area, located at 90 Dalton Street in Trion.
The family-friendly festival will feature free parking and free admission, along with a free kayak paddle on the river, a free KidZone, open mic performances, educational demonstrations and talks, festival food, exhibitors, and more.
A cornhole tournament will also be part of the day’s activities, with registration and fees required for tournament participants and vendors.
The Chattooga River Group will have kayak raffle tickets and merchandise available for purchase at the CRG tent.
The day will wrap up with The Band Chickamauga performing from 4 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.