Residents across Northwest Georgia awoke to pleasant conditions this morning, with temperatures in the upper 60s and partly cloudy skies. However, the National Weather Service is forecasting a significant chance of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, particularly this afternoon and evening. A weather system developing over the Tennessee Valley and northern Alabama is expected to move into Northwest Georgia just before sunset. While the probability of severe weather remains low, isolated storms could produce heavy rainfall, frequent lightning, and gusty winds. The forecast calls for mostly cloudy conditions today, with temperatures climbing into the upper 80s. Tonight, showers and thunderstorms are expected, mainly before 9 PM. Some storms could bring heavy rainfall. The low temperature tonight will be around 68 degrees Fahrenheit, with a southwest wind around 5 mph. There is an 80% chance of precipitation, with new rainfall amounts between a quarter and a half-inch possible. The threat of storms continues into Father’s Day on Sunday, with an increased chance of daytime storms in the afternoon, mainly after 2 PM. Sunday night will likely see showers and thunderstorms before 11 PM, followed by a chance of showers between 11 PM and 2 AM. Patchy fog is also expected after 4 AM. The low will be around 69 degrees, with a southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm. The chance of precipitation is 60%. Looking ahead to Monday, the forecast indicates a continued chance of showers before 11 AM, followed by a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11 AM and 2 PM, and finally, showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 2 PM. Patchy fog is also possible before 8 AM. The high temperature will be near 86 degrees, with an 80% chance of precipitation.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, June 14, 2025:

In an effort to bolster the county’s preparedness for potential disasters, Chattooga County Emergency Management Director Pamela Vaughn is urging residents to join the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The program equips everyday citizens with vital skills needed to assist their communities in the wake of emergencies when professional first responders might be delayed or overwhelmed.

The CERT program, a nationally recognized initiative originating from the Los Angeles Fire Department, boasts over 600,000 trained volunteers across the country. Participants in Chattooga County will learn essential skills to manage utilities, suppress small fires, and provide basic first aid, including airway management, bleeding control, and shock treatment. “When disaster strikes, volunteers can be the difference between chaos and calm, danger and safety,” Vaughn stated in her recruitment appeal. The comprehensive training will also cover light search and rescue techniques, team organization, leadership skills, and the crucial ability to gather and relay critical disaster information to professional responders. This prepares volunteers to effectively assist during a range of emergencies, from earthquakes and floods to tornadoes and other potential crises impacting the county.

To be eligible for the Chattooga County CERT, volunteers must be at least 16 years old and either live, work, or worship within the county boundaries. All applicants are required to pass a criminal background check. Interested community members are encouraged to contact Emergency Management Director Pamela Vaughn directly at Pamela.Vaughn@chattoogacounty.gov for further information regarding upcoming training sessions and the application process.

The City of Summerville is seeking a qualified individual to fill the role of Payroll/Finance Clerk. This vital position is responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll, as well as performing a range of financial duties crucial to the city’s operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for processing weekly and monthly payroll, completing required quarterly reports, submitting payroll taxes, and preparing and distributing W-2s. They will also maintain employee leave records, distribute monthly reports to department heads, reconcile credit card payments, and prepare reconciliation requests for probation payments. Beyond payroll duties, the role involves preparing daily reports, entering journal entries, providing customer service, preparing invoices as needed, and assisting with budget preparation. The candidate will also serve as an Accounts Payable backup and maintain the confidentiality of personnel and City information, including fraud prevention measures. The position requires a High School diploma or equivalent and one to two years of experience in accounting or a similar role. The work environment is typically indoors in a controlled office setting, primarily involving sitting at a desk or table. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately to be considered for this important role in the City of Summerville’s finance department. Further details about the application process can be found on the city’s website HERE or by contacting City Hall directly.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) offers an Automation Engineering Technology program that trains students to design and troubleshoot automated systems. Established in 2019 at the Whitfield Murray Campus, it is the only engineering-based program in Georgia. The curriculum focuses on math, science, and core concepts like circuit analysis and PLC programming. Students complete a capstone project or an internship, and the program supports pathways to further degrees. Graduates can pursue careers in various industries, earning $55,000 to $100,000. High demand for skilled graduates leads to job offers before program completion, emphasizing the field’s growth and potential. See more details below in a press release from GNTC:

Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s (GNTC) Automation Engineering Technology program prepares students to design, implement and troubleshoot automated industrial processes on robotic equipment and other automated systems.

The Automation Engineering Technology associate degree program, established in fall 2019, is housed at GNTC’s Whitfield Murray Campus in Dalton.

“A handful of other colleges in Georgia offer automation programs through Mechatronics, but GNTC’s program is the only engineering-based program.” said Darrell Huggins, GNTC’s Automation Engineering Technology program director and instructor. “GNTC also has industry-standard equipment that allows students to learn current concepts relevant to the field.”

Automation Engineering is one of the fastest growing fields in the industry, Huggins said.

“Manufacturers see automation and the required jobs to keep everything running as investment priorities to speed up production and minimize costs,” Huggins said. “Most people usually think of automation as robotics, but it also extends into areas that many people don’t see, like medical, manufacturing, finance and customer service.”

Huggins said 3D printing has revolutionized manufacturing, enabling rapid prototyping and customized production. Cloud computing with seamless data storage and real-time analytics across locations and devices is also becoming more important as companies gather data on production processes.

GNTC’s program emphasizes math and physical science and features a strong occupational core encompassing circuit analysis, computer programming, CAD (computer aided design) and economics. Students learn motor theory and application, PLC (programmable logic controller) fundamentals and HMI (human machine interface) touchscreen programming, complex industrial instrumentation and loop tuning techniques, instrumentation calibration techniques and industrial robot programming.

At the end of the program, students either complete a capstone project or work as an Engineering intern for a participating local company for eight to 10 weeks. The program also provides a path for students to enter into a bachelor’s degree program in Engineering at another college.

“GNTC offers a dual degree option with Industrial Systems Technology that allows students to receive up to two associate degrees, one diploma and nine certificates while attending a two-year schedule,” Huggins said. (Industrial Systems Technology will become Automation Technology in Fall 2025.)

Todd Campbell, who works in medical robotics for Swiss company DIH Inc., earned the dual degree program in Automation Engineering and Industrial Systems Technology at GNTC.

Campbell attended classes in his 40s, seeking a career that would enable him to afford to care for his family more comfortably than he could if he started his own business. He said GNTC’s program provided a terrific opportunity.

“Automation Engineering is the future of the world and is a great platform to get your foot into the field or to create a career if you want to move into Mechatronics,” Campbell said. “Automation entails more than conveyors and assembly lines; it is used by water systems, airlines and numerous other industries.”

“I strongly suggest a dual degree in Automation Engineering and Industrial Systems Technology at GNTC because the core principles of both are the electronics and electrical side of things, which will help the graduate to excel in the field or move on to pursue a four-year degree,” Campbell said.

Graduates have a skill set that can take them in diverse career fields, including as automation rehabilitation equipment technicians in hospitals, engineering assistants in engineering departments, process control automation technicians in manufacturing, robotic repair and programming engineers, PLC and controls technicians and many positions in the automotive and the flooring industries, Huggins said. Employers who need graduates with this educational experience include Budweiser, Mars Inc. and Universal Studios, for example.

Graduates can earn from $55,000 to $100,000, based on experience, and receive great benefits, he said.

The career field pays well because graduates must be dedicated to learning, willing to spend years to master the wide range of concepts and equipment required, and prepared to cope with a lot of pressure, he said. Corporations lose thousands of dollars an hour when multimillion-dollar equipment is out of service, requires updates or needs repairs.

“In the last year, we have added three new robots and have a state-of-the-art Mechatronics automation system from Festo, which fully automates ordering,” he explained. “We have two Fanuc robots and one Universal robot.”

Employers who contact GNTC to hire employees are confident that graduates have the experience and expertise to work on their expensive equipment because they used some of the same machines at GNTC, he said.

Graduates of the program are in high demand across the United States and in many other countries, Huggins said. The demand is so great that GNTC students who have the hands-on skills have been hired by industry before they completed their physics course.

“We field anywhere from two to four and up to 10 requests per semester, depending on the economy. One company hired six students in two months before graduation,” Huggins said. “Some employers hire students as interns and pay for them to finish their program at GNTC.”

Huggins said he spent six years in the U.S. Air Force as a crew chief providing support for F-16CJ fighter jets. He later worked as an automotive technician at Ford and then owned his own repair shop for two years.  Then he went to work in industrial maintenance.

After beginning the Mechanical Engineering program at another college, he transferred to GNTC, where he earned an associate degree in Industrial Systems Technology, he said. He earned a bachelor’s degree through Valdosta State University. In more than 20 years of maintenance experience, he has also earned several certifications from colleges and industries, such as Siemens, he said.

“Automation Engineering Technology isn’t a field for everyone; you need to enjoy solving problems,” Huggins said. “Engineering problems are a little more complicated than most. If you enjoy it, then it never feels like work. You create new things and accomplish something that everyone uses or needs. You feel rewarded because people rely on you.”

A man, already in jail in Northwest Georgia, has been charged with internet sex crimes. John Wesley Fain, 41, of Cedartown, already incarcerated in the Floyd County Jail on unrelated theft charges, has been served with additional warrants alleging obscene internet contact with a child and solicitation of sodomy. According to the warrants issued by Floyd County authorities, Fain allegedly contacted a minor via the social media platform Snapchat between May 1st and May 9th of this year. The warrants state that Fain inquired with the minor about the price she would charge to allow him to perform a specific sex act. Investigators allege that Fain was aware the victim was a minor, having been previously informed of her age by the girl’s mother. Fain has been in custody since May 28th following his arrest for theft by taking. The charges stem from an alleged gun theft. He will now face additional charges related to the internet contact, and will remain in the Floyd County Jail pending further legal proceedings.

Georgia Power is bolstering its infrastructure with smart grid technology to minimize power outages for its 2.7 million customers during severe weather events. The power company announced its ongoing investment in upgrading its energy grid, aiming to improve service reliability and reduce disruptions caused by storms.

According to Georgia Power spokesperson Matthew Kent, the implementation of smart grid technology will enable the company to remotely restore power when lines go down, provided an alternative power route is available. This allows for quicker recovery times and minimizes the impact on customers. “The technology can remotely restore power in the event that a line is down if there’s an available way to reroute that power,” Kent explained. He also highlighted the role of smart meters and other smart technologies in reducing outage times, stating, “We’re using all of that together to make sure that we can make your power outage times as minimal as possible after a storm. The main goal is to minimize any disruption. We know how difficult it is to be without power.” The company reported a significant improvement in outage times for customers in 2023, with some experiencing up to a 50% reduction. Last year’s Hurricane Helene provided an opportunity to accelerate the upgrades. “We had something like 11,000 poles, 1,000 miles of wire down and 3,000 transmitters. It was a lot of work to restore that,” Kent noted, emphasizing the scale of the work required to modernize the infrastructure.

Georgia Power says they are committed to providing reliable and efficient energy service to its customers and continues to invest in advanced technologies to mitigate the impact of severe weather.

Residents and businesses in southeastern Georgia will soon have a new area code option, as the Georgia Public Service Commission has announced the addition of the 565 area code. This new code will overlay the existing 912 area code, which covers a wide swathe of southeastern Georgia, to address the growing demand for new phone numbers in the region. The 912 area code, established in 1954 as the first split from the original statewide 404 area code, is projected to exhaust its available number combinations by the second quarter of 2028.

The addition of the 565 area code will ensure a sufficient supply of phone numbers for the area for the next 24 years, according to telecommunications industry officials. Current phone customers with the 912 area code will retain their existing numbers. The 565 area code will only be assigned to new customers once all available 912 numbers are used up. “This overlay is a proactive step to ensure that southeastern Georgia continues to have access to the phone numbers it needs to grow and thrive,” said a spokesperson for the Georgia Public Service Commission.

The 912 area code currently serves major cities like Savannah, Brunswick, Douglas, Hinesville, Kingsland, Pooler, Richmond Hill, Saint Marys, Statesboro, and Waycross, as well as numerous smaller municipalities. It was previously split in 2000 to create the 229 and 478 area codes for Southwest and Middle Georgia, respectively.

While the specific launch date for the 565 area code is yet to be announced, residents and businesses are encouraged to be aware of the upcoming change and prepare for potential adjustments to dialing procedures in the future.

Canada geese can live in many places, especially around people, like neighborhoods and parks. This can be upsetting for homeowners when the geese molt in summer, becoming flightless for a few weeks. During this time, they might gather in the same area, but they will regain flight soon. “Late June through early July is when we can expect to see ‘flightless’ geese. They are unable to fly while they are in the process of molting,” says Kara Nitschke, a Georgia Migratory Gamebird Biologist. “Though they may be ‘hanging around’ the same area for a little while, they’ll be able to fly again within a couple of weeks.”The Georgia Department of Natural Resources says if you have issues with geese, you can use harassment techniques to scare them away, but these won’t work during molting. Homeowners should be patient until the geese can fly again. After molting, you can try various methods like using noise makers, chemical repellents, or physical barriers around your property to deter geese. If these methods fail, you can obtain a special permit for controlled removal, as Canada geese are protected by law. For more information, go to GeorgiaWildlife.com/preventing-wildlife-conflicts and then scroll down and click on “Canada Geese.”

GE Appliances announced the completion of an $180 million expansion at its Roper Corp. cooking products plant in LaFayette, which includes an additional $60 million investment. The expansion focuses on boosting American manufacturing in Georgia and involves advanced automation to create high-quality jobs and launch new products, such as the GE Profile induction range.

The new production lines can create gas, electric, or induction ranges and are equipped with advanced technology, including robotic cells for assembly. Robotics use has increased significantly, improving efficiency and worker ergonomics. Workforce development programs, including robotics training, are supported by a state grant and partnership with Georgia Northwestern Technical College.

This investment has generated over 600 new jobs at the plant, which is Walker County’s largest employer and celebrated its 50-year legacy in 2023. Overall, the expansion underscores Georgia’s importance in U. S. manufacturing and job creation.

Northwest Georgia residents are urged to prepare for another round of scattered showers and thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service has issued an advisory, highlighting the potential for frequent lightning, heavy rainfall, and gusty winds. While an isolated severe thunderstorm cannot be ruled out, the primary concerns remain localized flooding due to the high rainfall rates. Showers and thunderstorms are most likely to develop after 5 PM, with a 60% chance of precipitation. Rainfall amounts are expected to range between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, but significantly higher totals are possible within thunderstorms. The wet weather pattern is expected to continue into tonight, with showers and thunderstorms likely before 8 PM. Patchy fog is also possible between 1 AM and 2 AM. The chance of precipitation remains at 60%, with potential rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches. Looking ahead to Saturday, forecasters are closely monitoring an upper-level low moving into the Tennessee Valley. Even a subtle wave could trigger more severe storms than initially expected. With sufficient instability already present, conditions could be slightly more favorable for severe weather on Saturday compared to Friday. Residents, especially those with outdoor activities planned for the weekend, are advised to stay informed and monitor weather updates as we enter Father’s Day weekend.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, June 13, 2025:

Music lovers in Chattooga County are in for a treat tonight with two separate live music events taking place in Trion and Summerville this evening.

In Trion, a concert postponed last month due to bad weather is finally set to take place at the Trion Recreation Department. The high-energy tribute band “Pink Houses” will be performing the iconic hits of John Mellencamp. Attendees can expect to rock out to classics like “Jack & Diane” and “Hurts So Good.” The event is free and sponsored by the Town of Trion and the Trion Recreation Department. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from Trion Parks & Recreation throughout the evening.

Meanwhile, in Summerville, Summerville Main Street is hosting its popular Friday Night Live Concert, featuring the fan-favorite band, Strictly Skynyrd. The concert will run from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM.  Due to the forecast this evening,  the concert will be moved to the Chattooga County Ag Center under the covered arena.

With two great music options on offer, residents of Chattooga County have plenty to choose from for a night of live music.

The Supreme Court of Georgia has invalidated four of the seven election rules adopted by the Republican-led State Election Board. The unanimous decision, released Tuesday, affirmed concerns that the board overstepped its authority in implementing the rules. The court specifically struck down rules related to “reasonable inquiry” before election certification, allowing election board members to examine all election documentation, requiring hand-counting of ballots after polls close, and mandating photo ID for family members dropping off absentee ballots. Only the rule requiring video surveillance of absentee drop boxes outside voting hours was upheld. The remaining two rules, concerning daily reporting of vote totals and expanded access for poll watchers, were remanded to a lower trial court to determine if plaintiffs have the legal standing to challenge them.

The lawsuit challenging the rules was brought by Eternal Vigilance Action, Inc., and individuals Scot Turner and James Hall, who argued the rules contradicted the state Election Code. Their concerns were echoed by civil rights organizations. “The ruling confirms that the State Election Board exceeded its legal authority by attempting to rewrite election procedures just weeks before a major election without legislative approval and in direct contradiction of Georgia law,” stated Gerald A. Griggs, president of the Georgia State Conference of the NAACP. The Georgia State Conference of the NAACP and the Georgia Coalition for the People’s Agenda, represented by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the law firm Morgan Lewis, praised the court’s decision.

The now-invalidated rules were adopted in August and September 2024 with the support of the three Republican members of the five-member State Election Board. The ruling is expected to have a significant impact on election procedures in Georgia. The state, along with the Republican National Committee and the Georgia Republican Party, had appealed the initial challenge, arguing that the plaintiffs lacked the standing to sue.

Compiled Sources

According to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, a man was arrested outside a gas station in Menlo after making “inappropriate gestures” to passing motorists and attempting to enter the store, that was closed at the time.  The incident happened on Tuesday of this week at 12:10 AM at the America’s Quick Stop gas station near the intersection of Highway 48 and Jamestown Road.  Deputies responded to a call about a male subject, later identified as 64-year-old George Franklin Atchley, attempting to enter the closed gas station. A passerby flagged down a deputy,  stating they witnessed Atchley, described as wearing a green neon hoodie, repeatedly attempting to enter the store and making lewd, sexual gestures.  When deputies attempted to approach Atchley, he fled on foot. After a brief pursuit, Atchley stopped, but again attempted to flee when the responding deputy tried to exit his patrol vehicle.  Two deputies were able to apprehend Atchley near Showa Best Glove.  Atchley was taken to the Chattooga County Jail on misdemeanor charges of loitering or prowling and obstruction of officers.

After three decades of dedicated service, Paula Buice, Principal of Menlo Elementary School, has announced her retirement. In a  letter addressed to students, families, staff, and the broader Menlo community, Buice expressed her gratitude and reflected on her journey with the school. Buice’s connection to Menlo Elementary runs deep. “My story with Menlo Elementary began as a student, attending from first through eighth grade,” she wrote. Later, she returned to teach and eventually served as principal, witnessing countless students grow and succeed within the nurturing environment of the school. Beyond her role at Menlo Elementary, Buice also served on the Chattooga County district’s Academic Coach Team, working alongside other educators to enhance student achievement and cultivate a lifelong love of learning. In her farewell message, Buice expressed her appreciation to everyone who contributed to her fulfilling career. “I want to thank everyone—students, families, staff, and colleagues—for your support, kindness, and collaboration over the years. Menlo Elementary holds a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the memories we’ve shared.”

Photo Credit: UGA

Just as summer heats up and Georgians flock outdoors, a new and potentially dangerous pest is emerging: the Asian needle ant. New research from the University of Georgia (UGA) has raised concerns about the ant’s venomous sting, which, in some cases, can trigger life-threatening anaphylactic shock. While first detected in the U.S. in the 1930s, the Asian needle ant has remained relatively unnoticed until recently.

Now, the species is rapidly spreading throughout the Southeast, with Georgia backyards being a primary target. Despite their diminutive size – only 3/16 of an inch long – these tiny insects pack a potent sting. They prefer to nest in hardwood habitats, such as oak trees, leaf litter, dead logs, and areas with high moisture, like rock and stone piles. “Don’t underestimate these ants because of their size,” warns UGA entomology professor Dan Suiter. “Their sting can be life-threatening, especially for individuals who have previously experienced adverse reactions to bee or ant stings.” Even if not fatal, the venom can cause significant discomfort.

A UGA article highlights that pain from the sting “can come back days later.” The ants are most active during the warmer months, coinciding with peak outdoor activity. Identifying them can be tricky, as they don’t create noticeable mounds like fire ants or establish foraging trails. If you suspect you’ve encountered an Asian needle ant, UGA recommends sending photos or specimens to your local UGA Extension office for identification. If confirmed, a professional pest control service can provide baiting solutions.

Individuals at risk of allergic reactions should carry an EpiPen as a precaution.

Chattooga Head Start is now open for enrollment for the upcoming school year, offering a nurturing and educational environment where young children can grow, play, and thrive. Parents are encouraged to apply quickly as spots are filling fast! Chattooga Head Start provides early learning and development opportunities, ensuring children receive a strong foundation for future academic success. The program is led by a team of supportive and caring teachers dedicated to fostering a positive and stimulating learning experience. Beyond the classroom, Chattooga Head Start offers family-focused services, understanding the importance of a strong home-school connection. This comprehensive approach aims to support the entire family unit, creating a thriving community for all. Interested parents are urged to contact the following individuals to get their child on the enrollment list: Ashley Careathers: acareathers@myfraga.org or Tina Striblin: tstriblin@myfraga.org

Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC)  announced this week the students who have earned a place on the President’s and Dean’s Lists for the Spring 2025 semester. These honors recognize students who have achieved outstanding academic success while pursuing their educational goals. To qualify for the President’s List, students must maintain a GPA of 3.8 or higher while carrying a course load of at least 12 credit hours during the semester. The Dean’s List recognizes students with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.79, also with a minimum of 12 credit hours. GNTC extends its congratulations to all students recognized for their hard work and dedication. A special acknowledgement goes out to the following Chattooga County residents who achieved President’s List status: Tennie Bandy, David Bohannon, Jennifer Bohannon, Kaylin Brewer, Ariel Cargle, Tammy Chandler, Gretchen Clark, Jacob Cordell, Raven Dallas, Brantley Daniel, Case Davis, Noah Denson, Gayler Diaz-Vasquez, Victoria Gammon, Karsen Gilliam, Khristen Hastings, Bowden Heathcock, Dushaun Hunter, Danika Lee, Ethan Lembcke, Nasiah McVay, Stacy Moore, Tabatha Oney, Summer Railey, Lina Ramirez, Desirae Rogers, Ranzy Smith, Libby Veatch, Courtney Villagomez, Tayler Watson, Abram Williams and Mayahuel Yaoapoqa. The following Chattooga County residents earned Dean’s List honors: Dalton Bearden, William Cesareo, Colter Clifton, Luis Garcia, Matthew Hamby, Isis Hines, Jacob Odom, Nicole Smith and Haign Stephens. GNTC continues to be a leading provider of technical education, empowering students to succeed in a variety of high-demand fields. The college commends these students for their academic achievements and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.