Hometown Headlines in Rome reports that Andy Welborn celebrated his family’s five decades of auto sales in Northwest Georgia by purchasing the Nissan dealership on the bypass across from Unity Christian School from Shottenkirk and re-branding it as “Riverside. ” The temporary signage is up, with plans for a remodel over the next two years. The Riverside group, led by T. J. Forsyth and Corey Dowdy, with John Arrington serving as executive manager, will operate the Nissan campus. This acquisition adds to Riverside Auto Group’s existing dealerships in Rome and Cartersville. Welborn, a third-generation auto salesperson, emphasized the company’s commitment to the region and its values. He highlighted the growth in Cartersville and residential construction in Rome as key factors in the purchase. Welborn reassured the Nissan staff that the Riverside team is there to stay.

The American Red Cross continues to work to restock critically needed blood products uncollected due to the ongoing impact of Hurricane Helene’s devastation in the Southeast. Donors outside of affected areas are encouraged to make an appointment to give now and help keep the blood supply stable in the weeks to come.

Since making landfall, the storm and its aftermath have led to the cancellation of more than 100 blood drives, causing thousands of blood and platelet donations to go uncollected. For so many people living with urgent medical care needs, blood transfusions are essential, and donations in the Southeast are key to keeping our nationwide network stocked. The Red Cross operates through a national inventory with the ability to move blood wherever and whenever it is needed most.

The time to give blood is now. Bring hope to those in need by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. As the Red Cross continues to urge people to give blood now, our teams are also on the ground providing vital relief − like food, water, shelter and support − in communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. If you’re able to help those impacted by disasters big and small across the country, like Helene, please consider making a gift of any amount.

All who come to give blood Oct. 1-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Treat.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Oct. 8-31:

Bartow

Cartersville

10/29/2024: 12 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Cartersville Civic Ctr., 435 West Main Street

White

10/24/2024: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Cass High School, 1000 Colonel Way

Gordon

Calhoun

10/28/2024: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., First United Methodist Church Calhoun, 205 East Line Street

Fairmount

10/21/2024: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Fairmount Community Center, 11921 Fairmount Hwy SE

Murray

Chatsworth

10/17/2024: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Murray County High School, 1001 Green Road

How to donate blood Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

Driving is an important and exciting rite of passage for teens. It is also one of the riskiest activities in which they can engage. That is why AAA-The Auto Club Group is teaming up with community partners this fall to support National Teen Driver Safety Week, October 20-26, 2024. It is important to discuss safe driving habits with teens every day. National Teen Driver Safety Week allows parents and guardians to have a conversation with their teens about safe driving habits. Teen drivers must know the Rules of the Road before parents hand over the keys.

The Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) data indicates that traffic crashes are a leading cause of death for 15-20-year-olds. Young drivers in Georgia who died in traffic crashes decreased by 12% from 218 in 2021 to 192 in 2022. While the numbers appear to be trending in the right direction, motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of death for drivers aged 15-19, therefore advocating on behalf of teen driver safety remains a top priority for AAA.

“The role of parents is pivotal when it comes to instilling the principles of safe driving in their teenage children,” said Garrett Townsend, Public Affairs Director, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “That’s exactly why it’s crucial for parents to lead by example with their driving and to chat openly with their teens about making smart, safe choices when they’re behind the wheel. Also, NHTSA offers parents and guardians helpful tips and a framework for having discussions with teen drivers about risky driving behaviors that can lead to fatal consequences.”

These tips include discussions on how to influence positive behaviors and how to approach dangerous and deadly driving behaviors such as alcohol and other drug use, lack of seat belt use, distracted driving, speeding, or driving with passengers.

Teen driver safety risks:

• Impaired Driving: While teens are too young to legally buy, possess, or consume alcohol. It isn’t the only substance that can keep teens from driving safely: marijuana affects a driver’s ability to react to their surroundings. Remind teens that driving under the influence of any impairing substance — including illicit or prescription drugs, or over-the-counter medication — can have deadly consequences. Let teens know that safe driving behaviors are rewarded with the continued privilege to drive.
• Seat Belt Safety: Wearing a seat belt is a simple way teens can stay safer in a vehicle. Unfortunately, too many teens aren’t buckling up. Approximately one-half of teen passengers who die in crashes are unbuckled. Teen drivers and passengers are more likely to die in a crash if they are unbuckled (nine out of 10 of the passengers who died were also unbuckled). Empower teens to stand strong and confirm everyone is buckled before the vehicle moves. Reward teens with driving privileges for buckling up every trip, every time, and requiring all their passengers in every seat to do the same.
• Distracted Driving: Cell phone use while driving is more than just risky — it can be deadly. Texting while driving is outlawed in 49 states, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Remind teens about the dangers of using a phone while driving and clarify that any phone use (texting, talking, recording video, or using any social media apps) is unacceptable. Even if they are stopped at a light, remind teens that posting on social media while driving is unacceptable and illegal. Distracted driving isn’t limited to cell phone use. Other passengers, audio and climate controls in the vehicle, and eating or drinking while driving are all examples of dangerous distractions for any driver. According to the most recent data available, in 2021, among teen drivers of passenger vehicles involved in fatal crashes, 7% were reported as distracted at the time of the crash. Remind teens that headphones are not appropriate to wear while driving a vehicle. All drivers need to be able to hear another vehicle’s horn or the siren from an emergency vehicle, so they can safely move over and out of the path.
• Speed Limits: Speeding is a critical issue for all drivers, but it’s especially deadly for teens with less experience. Approximately one-third of all teen drivers involved in fatal crashes are speeding at the time of a crash. Data shows that males are more likely to be involved in fatal speeding-related crashes than females. Practice driving with your teen in different types of weather and talk about the importance of speed awareness in changing road conditions. Remind teens to always drive within the speed limit.

• Passengers: Passengers in a teen’s vehicle can lead to disastrous consequences. Research shows the risk of a fatal crash dramatically increases in direct relation to the number of passengers in a vehicle. The likelihood that a teen driver will engage in risky behavior triples when multiple passengers are in the same vehicle. Many states limit the number of passengers teen drivers can have in their vehicles. Parents should know what those restrictions are and enforce the law for their teen drivers.

Self-reported surveys show that teens whose parents set firm rules for driving typically engaged in less risky driving behaviors and were involved in fewer crashes. Teens need to understand the rules, whether there are any other restrictions outlined in Georgia’s graduated driver licensing (GDL) law, and the deadly consequences that could occur. By knowing the laws, the teen driver’s safety and that of other road users can be improved.

“While teens should learn much of this content in driver education, nothing replaces the guidance from parents and guardians that help teens make smarter decisions behind the wheel. Parents should communicate expectations and review the “rules of the road” and set these rules before handing over the car keys,” Townsend said. Teen Driver Safety Week is a call to action to end the needless suffering caused by preventable teen accidents nationwide.

With a spirit of compassion and urgency, AAA -The Auto Club Group will host the “Just Drive” initiative as part of National Teen Driver Safety Week, seeking to touch the hearts of families and plant the seeds of change. Attendees get to join in on fun workshops, hear from experts, and try out some activities that’ll show you why it’s imperative to focus on the road, slow down, steer clear of driving under the influence, and always snap on your seatbelt.

Home to one of only a few operating train turntables in the southeastern United States, Summerville is truly a step back in time for train and history buffs alike. The City of Summerville is currently in celebration of its annual “Steam into Summerville Railroad Days”. The 5-week celebration will usher in fall and visitors of all ages, while bringing a wide array of festivities to Summerville’s Dowdy Park and the Summerville Depot.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad’s Summerville Steam Excursion is now arriving weekly at the historic Summerville Depot each Saturday through November 3. Steam engine passenger trains are also set to arrive at the depot on 3 Sundays; October 13, 20 and November 3. Train arrivals and the turning of the antique steam engines are a highlight at each scheduled festival. Tickets for these excursions are purchased through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum at www.tvrail.com . These vintage train rides follow a historic route from Grand Junction Station in Chattanooga to the Historic Summerville Depot. Summerville welcomes the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and its passengers by opening the historic depot to the public and with activities, entertainment, and events planned for each train arrival. Each event hosted is unique to itself.

Summerville Mini Renaissance Festival – October 12

Dress as royalty, fairies, pirates, and peasants while you enjoy shopping, art, games, and a feast fit for a king. The Summerville Renaissance Festival will return to the Summerville Depot with pageantry, arts, music, artisans, food, and more. Renaissance Performers from Georgia, Tennessee and Alabama will be on hand to give festival goers a magical experience. An arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Passenger Train is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and a turning of the Summerville Turntable will also be featured. The Renaissance Festival hours are from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Old Fashioned Sunday Dinner At The Depot – October 13

Step back in time to a slower pace of life and enjoy an “Old Fashioned Sunday Dinner” at the Historic Summerville Depot. Event goers will have the opportunity to enjoy an “Old Fashioned Sunday Dinner” while enjoying live gospel music by a special surprise musical guest. The meal will be served by Sheila Stewart at the cost of $7.50 for a meat and 2 vegetables plate, $9.00 for 2 meats and 3 vegetables plate, or $6.50 for a 4 vegetable plate. The Sunday Dinner menu will consist of baked ham, chicken and dressing or plain dressing, green beans, mashed potatoes, sweet potato yams, pinto beans, corn, and cornbread or roll. Desserts available for purchase will include red velvet cake, pound cake or banana pudding. Tea and soft drinks will also be available for purchase. Cash, checks or Cash App will be accepted forms of payment to purchase meals. An arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Passenger Train is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and a turning of the Summerville Turntable will also be featured. This event will operate from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and is free for the public to attend.

Sequoyah Quilt Show – October 19-20

Experience fall at its best as artists, craftsman, musicians, and food vendors gather together for a weekend of fun! The Sequoyah Quilt Show will be held at the Summerville Depot October 19-20. Saturday show hours are 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. and Sunday hours are 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Admission is free. There will be large quilting exhibits of all kinds, as well as demonstrations inside the depot. Quilts may also be sold at this event. Returning this year will be a “Bed Turning” of quilts narrated by quilters throughout the day. Persons interested in exhibiting or selling quilt products at this show may contact Summerville Main Street at (706)859-0900 Ext. 1337. Food and craft vendors will also be on site and the arrival of the train is expected around 1:00 p.m. In addition, a special Living History Tour of The exhibit is free and open to the public.

Pumpkin Palooza and Downtown Halloween Candy Walk – October 26

Everything’s coming up candy and pumpkins in downtown Summerville on Saturday, October 26. Summerville Main Street will team up with the Summerville Trion Optimist Club to present the annual Pumpkin Palooza with Pumpkin Derby and the Halloween Candy Walk! This fall celebration will be held down the East Washington Streetscape to the Summerville Depot. Hours for the Pumpkin Palooza will run from 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Vendors will be on hand with a variety of foods, crafts, and retail for the public’s pleasure. Interested vendors should contact Susan Locklear by email at slocklear@summervillega.org for vendor registration information.

Highlights for the day will include a Youth Halloween Costume Contest for ages newborn – 12 at 11:30 a.m. inside of the Open-air Pavilion. Registration for the costume contest will begin at 11:15 a.m. Local Scouts will be participating in a special Pumpkin Derby Race that is scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. on East Washington Street near the depot.
Halloween Candy Walk

The Halloween Candy Walk is sponsored by The Summerville Trion Optimist Club and will run from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The candy walk will be located down the East Washington Street Streetscape area. The East Washington Street Streetscape entrances beginning at US 27/Commerce Street and The University Street Intersection will be closed to traffic beginning Saturday morning at 6:00 a.m. and remain closed until 3:00 p.m. Economy Street entrances to East Washington Street will also be closed during this time.
The participating businesses and organizations always enjoy this fun event and look forward to welcoming all the ghosts, ghouls, goblins and other costumed trick-or-treaters that will make their appearance at the annual Candy Walk. Businesses, churches, clubs, and civic organizations wishing to participate in handing out candy and treats to all the little spooks should contact Cindy Rivers at (706) 466-9014 for registration and set-up details.

Train fans will also enjoy the 1:00 p.m. Steam Engine arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Passenger Train. Following the arrival, spectators will view the Summerville Turntable in action turning the majestic steam engines.

Trains and Tracks Expo November 2-3

Train enthusiast of all ages will enjoy the Trains and Tracks Expo at the Summerville Depot November 2-3. Expo hours of operation are: Saturday, November 2nd from 10:00 am-3:00 pm and Sunday, November 3rd from 11:00 am -3:00 pm. Sunday’s train arrival will feature a double steam engine arrival. A highlight for the event will be the Chattanooga Modular Modeler Train exhibit. The expo is designed for children of all ages; for modelers, collectors, and enthusiasts; for families in search of good old-fashioned fun; and for the simply curious. It will feature tables of trains, accessories, scale models, and collectible toys. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Steam Engine is scheduled to arrive each day of the event at 1:00 pm with passengers and will be turned on the Summerville Turntable, for the public’s viewing pleasure. There will be railroad memorabilia for sale, food and craft vendors at the depot, and much more.
For more information on events contact The City of Summerville at (706) 859-0900 Ext.1337 or visit www.summervillega.org

GRAMMY® Award country band Shenandoah is coming to the aid of hurricane victims in Cocke County, Tennessee. On Monday, October 14, the legendary group will perform at Cotton Eyed Joe in Knoxville, Tennessee, with proceeds going to those in the area affected by Hurricane Helene.
“The devastation and destruction is unbelievable,” explains Shenandoah frontman Marty Raybon. “The loss of life is more than one can comprehend. But my heart is warmed to see the compassion of those who have come to help in any way they can. People from all over the southeast have come and helped in many different ways. It truly shows the heart of the American spirit. We will be at Cotton Eyed Joe next Monday for an acoustic set to raise money for the cause of mercy. I want to personally invite you to come out and enjoy tunes like ‘Two Dozen Roses,’ ‘Church on Cumberland Road,’ ‘Moon Over Georgia’ and all the rest of the hits as we try to do our part to help.”

Tickets are available for purchase here.

On Monday of this week, the Georgia Supreme Court reinstated the state’s six-week abortion ban while reviewing the state’s appeal of a lower court ruling that struck down the law. The decision makes most abortions illegal in the state after six weeks of pregnancy. The court’s ruling blocked a provision of the law allowing state prosecutors access to abortion patients’ medical records without due process. The near-total abortion ban, signed by Gov. Brian Kemp in 2019, went into effect in July 2022 after facing legal challenges. The law prohibits abortion when a fetal heartbeat is detected, as early as six weeks, with exceptions for situations endangering the woman’s life, health, or fetal anomalies. Republican Gov. Brian Kemp signed the state’s near-total abortion ban, known as the LIFE Act, in 2019, but it didn’t take effect until July 2022, after it faced a legal challenge and the U.S. Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade.

Kristofer Matthew Meeler, a 33-year-old Summerville man, was arrested on September 26, 2024, for repeatedly calling 911 in anger about his missing property. The incident took place at Summerville Police Department, where Meeler expressed frustration over law enforcement’s handling of the situation. Despite being informed that officers were occupied with serious accidents, Meeler insisted on immediate help, leading to arguments with dispatchers. He was eventually arrested for misusing 911. Meeler made threats against the officers’ jobs but was taken to Chattooga County Jail without issue.

Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) is hosting an Open House at all six campuses to provide an opportunity to learn more about the programs offered at GNTC, tour the facilities and meet faculty and staff.

The event on Thursday, Oct. 17, will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on each of GNTC’s campuses: Catoosa County Campus, Ringgold; Floyd County Campus, Rome; Gordon County Campus, Calhoun; Polk County Campus, Rockmart; Walker County Campus, Rock Spring; and Whitfield Murray Campus, Dalton.

Legare Price, dean of Student Success at GNTC, shared his excitement about the upcoming Open House.

“We are delighted to invite you to our Open House for our upcoming spring semester,” Price said. “This is your opportunity to explore one of our six campuses and take the first step in your college journey. Our goal is to simplify the process for you.”

The event will include information and assistance on admissions, advising, career guidance and financial aid. GNTC will waive the admission application fee for those attending the event.

“During your visit, you can tour our campuses, meet our experienced staff and faculty, learn about our student support services and even apply to GNTC for free—all in a single day,” Price said.

Attendees will receive GNTC giveaways.

For more information, contact admissions@gntc.edu or 866-983-4682.

Voices for Georgia’s Children and the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) are proud to announce that the 14th annual Georgia Pre-K Week takes place from October 7 to 11, 2024. This event celebrates quality early learning and highlights the importance of early childhood education across the state.

Launched in 1992 as a pilot program with just 750 students, the Georgia Pre-K Program has become a nationally recognized model, laying a solid foundation for academic excellence and future success for more than two million children statewide. This year’s Georgia Pre-K Week continues the tradition of inviting state and local leaders to engage with Pre-K classrooms across Georgia.

“Quality early learning lays the foundation for lifelong success – nurturing curiosity, fostering resilience, and empowering children to reach their fullest potential,” said Judy Fitzgerald, Executive Director of Voices for Georgia’s Children. “We understand the crucial role that early education plays in a student’s success. Children who experience quality early learning environments are more prepared for kindergarten, and this early start helps set them on a positive path for the future.”

Research shows children enrolled in the Georgia Pre-K Program make significant growth across all learning domains, including math, language and literacy, and social-emotional skills. Those gains happened for all students, regardless of gender or income differences. Those gains were shown to be sustained through the end of kindergarten, with another period of higher-than-expected gains occurring in 4th grade.

“Georgia Pre-K has consistently garnered bipartisan support and advocacy from governors, state, and local leaders,” said DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs. “This annual event offers a valuable opportunity for advocates to witness firsthand that their commitment to the program yields significant benefits.”

She added, “We’re excited for this year’s participants to explore A Magnificent Field Trip to the Governor’s Mansion, written by former Georgia football player and literacy advocate, Malcolm Mitchell, with the state’s youngest learners.”

Georgia Power returns as a premier sponsor of Georgia Pre-K Week, continuing a decade-long tradition of supporting early education. Georgia Pre-K Week 2024 is supported by Governor Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp, state commissioners, state and local elected officials, and other longstanding community partners across the state.

For more information about Georgia Pre-K Week, please visit www.gaprekweek.com.

In an exciting astronomical event, Earth’s moon is set to have a temporary companion — a “mini moon” dubbed 2024 PT5. This intriguing space rock, measuring approximately 33 feet (10 meters) in size — roughly the length of a school bus — made it’s appearance this past weekend, becoming temporarily trapped by our planet’s gravity and entering into orbit. However, this cosmic visitor won’t be sticking around for long; it is expected to orbit Earth for only about two months.

The mini moon was first detected in August by astronomers Carlos de la Fuente Marcos and Raúl de la Fuente Marcos at Complutense University of Madrid, utilizing a powerful telescope located in Sutherland, South Africa. Their findings were published by the American Astronomical Society, adding to the excitement of this rare celestial event. According to Richard Binzel, an esteemed astronomer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, these short-lived mini moons are likely more common than previously thought. “This happens with some frequency, but we rarely see them because they’re very small and very hard to detect,” he explained. Binzel also noted that advancements in observational technology have recently improved our ability to spot these elusive space rocks more routinely.

The last known mini moon was detected back in 2020.

While 2024 PT5 won’t be visible to the naked eye or through standard amateur telescopes, it can be observed with larger, research-grade telescopes, offering an exciting opportunity for professional astronomers and enthusiasts alike.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, October 8, 2024:

Near-perfect fall weather is on tap for most of our area this week, and while Hurricane Milton will likely impact Florida this week, no rain or severe weather is expected in our area.  In fact, we should see sunny skies and pleasant temperatures for the next seven days.

Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama can expect a mix of gusty winds and warm temperatures throughout the day today, with highs reaching the low to mid-80s this afternoon. Overnight lows will settle comfortably in the 60s, providing a pleasant evening for outdoor activities. This morning, winds will begin lightly but are forecast to pick up as the day progresses, shifting from the northeast at speeds of 5 to 10 mph. By afternoon, gusts could increase to around 15 mph, creating a refreshing breeze under clear skies.

In the longer term, attention is focused on Hurricane Milton, currently located north of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Gulf of Mexico. The storm has rapidly intensified into a category 5 hurricane and is projected to make landfall in central Florida late Wednesday night or early Thursday morning. Fortunately, little to no impact is anticipated for north and central Georgia. However, some tropical moisture from the hurricane could reach portions of central Georgia, leading to isolated showers, particularly in the far southeastern areas of the forecast region. Rainfall is expected to be minimal, with totals under half an inch, accompanied by breezy winds that may gust to 20-30 mph early Thursday.

As we move further into the week, a large closed low over southeast Canada and a broad upper-level ridge over the central United States will lead to cooler and drier conditions across the area. Morning lows on Thursday are expected to drop to the low to mid-50s in north Georgia, with central Georgia experiencing lows in the upper 50s to low 60s. Afternoon highs will likely remain in the mid to upper 70s.

With the arrival of the weekend, temperatures will cool further, potentially dipping into the upper 40s by Saturday morning. Friday is expected to be the coolest day of the week, with highs only reaching the mid-70s.

As next week approaches, however, residents can look forward to a gradual warming trend, with temperatures climbing back into the 80s by Sunday.

A statement released Monday by Chattooga County Commissioner Blake Elsberry regarding a troubling incident involving the county’s animal control has left many residents questioning the transparency of the investigation.

On September 23, 2024, an incident occurred that has since raised eyebrows, particularly concerning the euthanization of a family pet and allegations that a county employee attempted to cover up the circumstances surrounding it. Elsberry’s vague statement, shared on social media Monday, indicated that he had conducted an investigation and reprimanded the employee involved, though he provided no specific details about the reprimand or the nature of the violations. In his statement, Elsberry noted, “I have concluded the investigation on the incident that took place involving Animal Control. I was notified of the situation on the evening of September 26, 2024. The employee involved has been reprimanded. Documentation has been gathered of the violations that occurred, and the responsibility of the animal owner. This file is available upon request. Thank you for your patience as we gathered the necessary information.”

Despite the assurance of thoroughness, residents are calling for more transparency.

WZQZ has reached out to Commissioner Elsberry for further clarification and specific answers regarding the euthanization of the pet and the alleged cover-up, but as of now, no additional comments have been provided. Community members are expressing frustration, demanding accountability and a clearer understanding of the situation.

Ethan Seth Bryant, a 35-year-old resident of Chattooga County, was arrested on September 25, 2024, after a routine traffic stop led to the discovery of illegal substances in his vehicle. A Chattooga County Deptuy, who was patrolling Highway 27 Northbound, noticed Bryant’s Jeep driving on the shoulder of the highway with both right-side tires off the pavement.

The deputy activated his emergency lights, prompting Bryant to pull over without incident. Upon approaching the vehicle, the deputy requested Bryant’s driver’s license, which he provided readily. When asked about his recent whereabouts, Bryant stated he was returning from a friend’s house on Mountain View Road. However, when questioned about his past legal troubles, he admitted to being on probation for drug-related offenses.

After confirming Bryant’s probation status through Chattooga E911, the deputy sought consent to search the vehicle. Bryant complied, allowing the officer to conduct a thorough search. During the search, the deputy discovered a loose plastic seal around the gear shift. Upon removing it, he found a sock containing a glass smoking device and two clear bags with a white powdery substance, suspected to be methamphetamine.

Bryant was placed under arrest and transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident. Upon arrival, a jail officer discovered a small bag in Bryant’s left cargo pocket, which he identified as containing Xanax. Bryant now faces several charges, including possession of methamphetamine, possession of Schedule IV drugs, possession of drug-related objects, and failure to maintain lane, and crossing the guard line with drugs.

In the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence survey from the Centers for Disease Control, 42. 1% of Hispanic women reported experiencing stalking, physical, or sexual violence, totaling around 7,618,000 victims. Advocates are emphasizing the unique challenges Hispanic survivors face when seeking help, such as language barriers, cultural beliefs about divorce, and financial dependence on abusive partners.

Hospitality House, located in Rome, serves women in Chattooga and Floyd Counties who are victims of domestic abuse and want the community to know that they do offer bilingual services for any woman in need.

Many Hispanic individuals may not be aware of available resources due to language barriers, religious beliefs, and fear of losing legal rights if they leave their household. Hospitality House is working to ensure survivors know they are not alone. Organizations like Hospitality House provide bilingual services, counseling, support groups, and a crisis line for Spanish speakers. Additionally, the organization offers shelter, clothing, and essential supplies for both women and children affected by domestic violence. The goal is to empower survivors to break the cycle of violence with increased awareness and community collaboration.

Gas prices declined at the pumps compared to a week ago.  Georgians pay an average of $2.74 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline (subject to change overnight). Monday’s state average is 23 cents less than a week ago, 35 cents less than a month ago, and 44 cents less than last year. It costs drivers an average price of $41.10 to fill a 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline. Georgians are paying $5.25 less to fill up at the pump than a month ago.

“Even with rumblings of conflict and a storm brewing in the Gulf, prices at the pumps took a dip,” said Montrae Waiters, AAA-The Auto Club Group spokeswoman. “Meanwhile, OPEC+ announced intentions to bolster production come December 1st, hopefully, with this move and crude oil prices trending downward, Georgians will continue to feel financial ease at the pumps.”

AAA encourages drivers to take advantage of the money-saving gas tips listed below.

Nationally:

Pump Prices Resume Falling

Since last Monday, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline decreased by 4 cents to $3.17 (subject to change overnight). The devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene did little to impact gasoline supply, but it crushed demand in affected areas by destroying infrastructure and causing power outages.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gas demand plummeted from 9.20 million barrels a day last week to 8.52. Meanwhile, total domestic gasoline stocks rose from 220.1 million barrels to 221.2, while gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.6 million barrels daily. Tepid gasoline demand and low oil costs will likely keep pump prices sliding.

Regional Prices:

Atlanta- $2.75

The most expensive Georgia metro markets – are Savannah ($2.83), Valdosta ($2.80), and Hinesville-Fort Stewart ($2.79).

The least expensive Georgia metro markets – are Rome ($2.65), Dalton ($2.56), and Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.53).

Area gas price averages – Chattooga ($2.65), Walker ($2.55), Floyd ($2.66), Gordon ($2.66), DeKalb, AL ($2.73), Cherokee, AL ($2.72).

In a recent incident on September 29, 2024, local authorities arrested 42-year-old Travis Hollis Knox following a traffic stop for speeding. The arrest took place at the intersection of Highway 27 and Halls Valley Road after Knox was clocked driving at a rate of 70 mph in a 55 mph zone. According to the report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Gene Whitworth initiated the traffic stop on Knox, who was driving a white 2023 Chevrolet Malibu.

Upon approaching the vehicle, Deputy Whitworth detected a strong odor of marijuana, prompting him to question Knox about the presence of the substance in the car. Knox admitted to having marijuana he acquired from a party. Upon a search of the vehicle, deputies discovered a plastic container with a green lid containing suspected marijuana in the console, along with a glass jar and a medicine bottle located in a black plastic bag on the passenger side floorboard. The total weight of the marijuana was determined to be approximately 36 grams, exceeding the legal limit of one ounce. During the search, deputies also found a clear ziplock bag containing two mushrooms, suspected to be a Schedule I drug, along with a Wild Hemp package that contained a hand-rolled marijuana cigar and several burnt blunts.

All items were collected as evidence and the vehicle was impounded by Gary’s Towing. Knox was arrested and transported to the county jail, where he was charged with speeding, possession of marijuana in excess of one ounce, and possession of a Schedule I drug. A field test confirmed the presence of marijuana in the seized substances, and both the marijuana and mushrooms have been sent to the crime lab for further testing.

The much-anticipated Summerville Mini Renaissance Festival is just around the corner! Set to take place this Saturday, October 12th, from 11 AM to 5 PM, the festival promises a delightful blend of chivalry, romance, and spirited fun for visitors of all ages. Centrally located at the Summerville Depot, the festival will transform the area into a vibrant celebration of medieval culture. Attendees can look forward to an array of live entertainment, unique shopping opportunities, stunning artworks, exciting games, and a feast fit for a king. Best of all, admission is free! Festival-goers are encouraged to come dressed in character, whether donning a royal gown or a knight’s armor, or simply to enjoy the festive atmosphere. In addition to the myriad of activities, Summerville will welcome the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Steam Engine, along with a demonstration of the Summerville Turntable at 1 PM.  Gather your friends and family and join the fun at the Summerville Mini Renaissance Festival this Saturday in downtown Summerville.

In a determined response to a severe and ongoing blood shortage, Blood Assurance is rolling out a special incentive program aimed at encouraging donations from O-negative red blood cell and AB-plasma donors through the end of the year.

The organization will provide e-gift cards as a token of appreciation for those who step up to fill this critical need. O-negative red blood cell donors will receive a $25 e-gift card for whole blood donations and a $40 e-gift card for double red cell donations. Meanwhile, AB-plasma donors will be rewarded with a $25 e-gift card for each plasma donation.

“These e-gift cards are our way of thanking donors who help us during this critical shortage,” stated Garry Allison, Senior Vice President of Operations at Blood Assurance. “O-negative and AB-plasma donors are particularly vital, as their donations can make the difference in emergencies and routine medical care.” O-negative, recognized as the universal blood type, can be given to anyone, making it especially crucial in emergency situations where a patient’s blood type may be unknown. Similarly, type AB is regarded as the universal plasma donor because it is compatible with all blood types, further emphasizing the importance of these donations.

In addition to the e-gift card incentives, all donors who contribute between now and October 15th will automatically be entered for a chance to win a Solo Stove Yukon 2.0, adding an exciting reward for those who make the effort to give. Anyone interested in scheduling a donation can do so by visiting www.bloodassurance.org/schedule, calling 800-962-0628, or texting BAGIVE to 999777. Eligibility requirements dictate that donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental consent), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good health. Blood Assurance encourages all potential donors to hydrate and have a hearty meal before their donation to ensure a smooth process.

As the blood shortage continues, Blood Assurance is calling on the community to step up and help save lives through blood donation.