Cool Start To The Week Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are waking up to a noticeably cooler start to the week, with temperatures running 5 to 10 degrees below normal for early May.
Early Sunday morning brought lows in the low to mid 40s across the area, with some upper 30s possible in the higher elevations nearby. These cooler-than-average conditions will continue into Monday morning, making it the chilliest stretch of the week.
Afternoon highs today will stay mild, topping out in the upper 60s to around 70 degrees under mostly sunny skies. Dry air moving into the region will keep humidity levels low, creating comfortable conditions but also raising fire weather concerns. Light northwest winds combined with dry vegetation mean outdoor burning is discouraged across parts of Northwest Georgia.
By Monday, temperatures will begin to rebound, with highs returning to the upper 70s and near 80 degrees. Dry conditions will remain in place through at least Tuesday as high pressure dominates the region.
Attention then turns to midweek, when a developing storm system is expected to move toward the Southeast. Shower and thunderstorm chances will increase Wednesday into Thursday across Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County. While widespread severe weather is not certain at this time, some storms could bring gusty winds and brief heavy rainfall. The exact timing and coverage of these storms will become clearer over the next few days.
Behind that system, another round of seasonably cool air is expected to move in, bringing highs back into the 70s and lows in the 40s and 50s late in the week.
Arrest Report - Sunday - May 3, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, May 3, 2026:
Funeral Services To Be Held Today For Former Summerville Police Chief Stan Mosley
Funeral services will be held today for former Summerville Police Chief Stanley O’Shea Mosley.
Mosley, age 60, of Summerville, passed away following a period of declining health.
A homegoing service celebrating his life will be held today, Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 2 PM at Oak Hill Baptist Church in the Gore Community. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Public viewing was held Saturday at Wright Memorial Mortuary.
5th Annual Chattooga River Fest Set For June 13 In Trion
The 5th Annual Chattooga River Fest is set to return to Trion on Saturday, June 13, bringing a full day of outdoor fun, live music, and family-friendly activities to Northwest Georgia.
The event will begin at 10 AM at the Trion Recreation Department and is open to the public.
Organizers say this year’s festival will feature vendors, festival food, outdoor life demonstrations, and educational talks focused on the Chattooga River and surrounding environment. Attendees can also enjoy live local music throughout the day, with The Band Chickamauga scheduled to headline at 4 PM.
Family activities will include a free KidZone with access to the splash pad, as well as a cornhole tournament and other recreational events.
A kayak raffle sponsored by Atrium Health EMS is also planned, along with a free float on the Lower Chattooga River, with additional details expected to be announced soon.
Organizers say the event is pet-friendly but note that pets must be leashed, well-behaved, and meet specific guidelines for safety.
The Chattooga River Fest is organized by Cindy L. Rivers McGraw and the Chattooga River Group, with support from local sponsors including Atrium Health EMS and Pine Ridge Outdoor Supply.
More information, including vendor and participant registration, is available online.
Insurance Costs Rise For Teen Drivers In Georgia
Teen drivers in Georgia are facing some of the highest insurance costs of any age group, as insurers point to increased risk and inexperience behind the wheel.
According to industry data, adding a teen driver to a family policy can significantly increase premiums, sometimes doubling the cost depending on the vehicle, driving record, and coverage levels.
Insurance companies say the higher rates are largely due to statistics showing teens are more likely to be involved in accidents, especially during their first few years of driving. Factors such as distracted driving, nighttime driving, and limited experience all contribute to the increased risk.
In Georgia, teens can begin driving with a learner’s permit at age 15 and obtain a provisional license at 16 under the state’s graduated driver licensing law. Restrictions on nighttime driving and passenger limits are designed to reduce risk, but insurance rates remain high during these early years.
There are some ways families can lower costs. Many insurers offer discounts for good grades, driver’s education courses, and safe driving programs. Choosing a safe, lower-cost vehicle and maintaining a clean driving record can also help reduce premiums over time.
Experts recommend parents compare multiple insurance providers and review coverage options carefully to find the best balance between cost and protection.
While the higher costs can be challenging, insurance professionals say proper coverage is critical to protect young drivers and their families financially in the event of an accident.
Cherokee County Marks Historic Courthouse Transition With Ceremony
Cherokee County, Alabama marked a major milestone Friday with a ceremony honoring the transition from its longtime courthouse to a new, modern facility in Centre.
The event brought together community leaders, residents, and officials to reflect on the past while celebrating the future of the county’s judicial system.
For nearly 100 years, since 1937, the historic courthouse served as the center of government and community life in Cherokee County. Organizers emphasized that courthouses are more than buildings—they represent justice, civic pride, and the place where many of life’s most important moments occur.
Friday’s ceremony began at the old courthouse with a symbolic lowering of the American and Alabama flags by local honor guards. The flags were then presented to Judge Jack Livingston, a World War II Navy veteran and longtime public servant, who carried them to the new courthouse.
That walk turned into a community parade, featuring local students, civic groups, law enforcement, and first responders—highlighting the connection between generations and the future of the county.
At the new courthouse, the flags were raised again, symbolizing the continuation of service and commitment to the community. The ceremony also included the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem, and remarks from several state and local leaders.
A helicopter flyover from regional aviation units and participation from surrounding communities underscored the significance of the moment.
The event concluded with a ribbon cutting and public tours of the new facility, giving residents a firsthand look at the courthouse that will serve Cherokee County for generations to come.
Officials said while the building has changed, the mission remains the same: to serve the people, uphold the law, and carry forward a legacy rooted in nearly a century of history.
WEIS Radio contributed to this report
Kemp Says Georgia Will Wait On Redistricting Changes Until 2028
Governor Brian Kemp says Georgia will not rush into redrawing its political maps following a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision, signaling that any changes will likely come later.
In a new statement, Kemp said the ruling “requires Georgia to adopt new electoral maps before the 2028 election cycle,” but made it clear the state will not call a special session to redraw districts ahead of the 2026 elections.
The decision comes after the Supreme Court issued a ruling that weakens parts of the Voting Rights Act, potentially giving states more flexibility in how congressional districts are drawn.
While some Republican leaders in Georgia and other Southern states have pushed for immediate redistricting, Kemp’s position means current district maps are expected to remain in place through the next election cycle.
Political observers say the issue could still become a major focus ahead of 2028, as lawmakers evaluate how the court’s decision impacts representation and district boundaries across the state.
Georgia has already faced legal battles over its maps in recent years, including a federal court order in 2023 requiring lawmakers to redraw districts over concerns about minority voting strength.
Kemp’s announcement puts Georgia among states taking a more cautious approach, even as redistricting debates intensify across the South.
Sen. Lanny Thomas Appointed To Key Georgia Senate Committees
State Senator Lanny Thomas of Trion has been appointed to serve on several key Georgia Senate committees, giving Northwest Georgia a voice in major policy areas.
Thomas, a Republican representing Georgia’s 53rd Senate District, will serve on the Banking and Financial Institutions Committee, Higher Education Committee, Natural Resources and the Environment Committee, and Transportation Committee.
He will also serve as an ex-officio member of the Education and Youth Committee and the State and Local Governmental Operations Committee.
Thomas said he is honored to represent Northwest Georgia through the assignments and thanked Lt. Governor Burt Jones, Senate President Pro Tempore Larry Walker, and the Senate Committee on Assignments for their trust.
Thomas said the committees touch the everyday lives of hardworking people back home, adding that he looks forward to bringing Northwest Georgia’s voice into those discussions.
A retired educator with more than 35 years of experience, Thomas said education will remain a major focus of his work in the Senate. He also brings local government experience, having served six years as a town councilman and eight years as mayor.
Thomas said that background has shown him how decisions made at the state level impact local classrooms, families, and communities.
Senator Thomas represents Georgia’s 53rd Senate District, which includes Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties, along with a portion of Floyd County.
He can be reached at 404-657-7716 or by email at Lanny.Thomas@senate.ga.gov.
Georgia Labor Force, Employment Reach Record Highs In March
Georgia’s workforce continues to show strong growth, with both labor force participation and employment reaching all-time highs in March, according to new data from the Georgia Department of Labor.
The state’s labor force rose to 5,455,254, while employment climbed to 5,262,263—both record-setting numbers. Georgia’s unemployment rate for March came in at 3.5 percent, remaining below the national average and slightly up from 3.4 percent one year ago. The rate is also down from 3.6 percent in February.
State Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes says the numbers reflect continued momentum across Georgia’s economy.
“Georgia’s economy is proving its strength with nearly 5.5 million in our labor force and 5.26 million employed,” Holmes said. “This is what resilient, sustainable growth looks like.”
Over the past year, Georgia’s labor force has increased by more than 45,000 people, while employment has grown by over 35,000. Meanwhile, the number of unemployed Georgians declined slightly in March compared to February.
Job growth also rebounded in March after two months of decline, with total jobs increasing by 4,700 over the month to nearly 5 million statewide.
The health care and social assistance sector led the way, reaching a record high of 641,700 jobs. That sector also saw the largest monthly and annual gains, adding 2,900 jobs in March and more than 24,000 over the past year.
Other industries seeing monthly growth included wholesale trade, information services, arts and entertainment, and other service-related jobs.
However, not all sectors saw gains. Job losses were reported in areas such as accommodation and food services, construction, real estate, and professional services. Over the past year, declines were also seen in federal government jobs, retail trade, transportation, and construction.
Unemployment claims rose slightly in March compared to February but remain lower than this time last year.
Officials say the overall data points to a stable and growing economy, even as some industries continue to adjust to shifting demand and workforce trends.
For those needing assistance, the Georgia Department of Labor offers resources online and through career centers statewide.
Georgia Timber Industry Faces Ongoing Challenges, Including Impacts In Chattooga County
Georgia’s timber industry, long considered one of the state’s economic backbones, is facing a growing list of challenges that are also being felt locally in Chattooga County and across Northwest Georgia.
Forestry remains one of Georgia’s top industries, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing billions to the state’s economy. In rural areas like Chattooga County, timber harvesting, logging, and related services play a key role in supporting landowners and small businesses.
However, industry leaders say a combination of economic pressure, environmental concerns, and workforce shortages is creating uncertainty.
One of the biggest challenges continues to be fluctuating timber prices. Demand for lumber surged during the pandemic housing boom, but prices have since stabilized, leaving some landowners seeing lower returns on harvested timber.
In Chattooga County, where many families rely on timber as a long-term investment, those shifts can directly impact household income and land management decisions.
Labor shortages are also affecting logging operations. Fewer workers are entering the field, making it harder for companies to maintain production levels. Rising equipment and fuel costs have added additional strain on smaller logging operations throughout Northwest Georgia.
Environmental factors are another concern. Severe weather, including storms and drought conditions, can damage timber stands and delay harvests. At the same time, increasing attention on sustainability and water quality—especially related to industrial activity in the region—has placed additional scrutiny on forestry practices.
Transportation and supply chain issues have also made it more difficult to move timber efficiently, particularly for mills and processors that rely on steady deliveries.
Despite these challenges, forestry experts say the long-term outlook remains stable, with continued demand for wood products and ongoing efforts to improve forest management practices.
Local leaders in Northwest Georgia continue to emphasize the importance of supporting the timber industry, noting its role in preserving working forests, protecting rural economies, and maintaining the region’s natural landscape.
Free PFAS Documentary Screening Set For Monday In Rome
The public is invited to a free documentary screening Monday at the DeSoto Theatre in downtown Rome, focusing on PFAS contamination in the South and its impact on Northwest Georgia.
The documentary is part of a months-long investigative project titled, “Forever Stained: The South’s Carpet Empire and the Chemicals that Don’t Go Away.” The project was produced by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Post and Courier in South Carolina, AL.com in Alabama, FRONTLINE PBS, and The Associated Press.
Doors will open at 5:45 PM, and the film begins at 6:30 PM.
Following the screening, attendees are invited to stay for a moderated conversation led by CRBI Executive Director Jesse Demonbreun-Chapman. The discussion will include investigative reporters Brad Schrade and Dylan Jackson with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, as well as Dr. Dana Barr of Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health.
Organizers say the conversation will highlight the multi-year investigation into forever chemicals, including what happened, how PFAS contamination has affected communities, and the ongoing concerns surrounding health and water quality in Northwest Georgia.
PFAS chemicals are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down in the environment.
Thanks to FRONTLINE and National Public Broadcasting, the screening is free to attend, but reservations are required.
Arrest Report - Saturday - May 2, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, May 2, 2026:
Cool, Wet Start To May For Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
A cool and damp start to May is underway across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, with showers expected through the day as a weather system moves across the state.
Rain will gradually come to an end from northwest to southeast today as the system moves toward the Georgia coast and pulls the rain offshore. For Chattooga County, rainfall totals should stay fairly light, generally around a tenth to half an inch before conditions begin improving later today.
Skies are expected to begin clearing this afternoon and evening as high pressure builds in from the west, bringing drier air into the region. Temperatures will remain cooler than normal for early May, with afternoon highs mainly in the 60s to near 70.
Tonight will feel noticeably chilly across Northwest Georgia, with lows dropping into the 40s. In the higher elevations of North Georgia, temperatures could dip into the upper 30s.
Sunday will bring clearer and drier weather, but the cool air will linger. Highs should rebound into the lower to middle 70s, still slightly below normal for this time of year.
Sunday night into Monday morning could bring a frost threat for parts of the North Georgia mountains. A frost advisory may be needed, and some climate sites could come close to record low temperatures.
A warming trend is expected to begin Monday as high pressure shifts east and temperatures climb back closer to normal, with highs returning to the upper 70s and mid 80s.
The next chance for showers and thunderstorms arrives by the middle to latter part of next week, most likely sometime late Wednesday into Thursday. Forecasters say the exact timing, location, and intensity of those storms remain uncertain.
Friday Night Concert Series Returns to Downtown Summerville May 15
Live music is coming back to downtown Summerville as the Friday Night Concert Series continues on May 15.
The concert will take place in the East Washington Street Entertainment District, featuring the 1st Generation Band as the headlining act.
Music begins with a local opening act at 7:00 PM, followed by the main performance from 7:30 to 9:30 PM.
The event is sponsored by the City of Summerville Main Street, and organizers encourage the community to come out and enjoy an evening of live entertainment, food, and fun in the heart of downtown.
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Set For Saturday, May 9
The National Association of Letter Carriers will hold its annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive on Saturday, May 9.
Now in its 34th year, the nationwide one-day food drive helps stock local food pantries at a time when many supplies are running low heading into summer.
Residents can participate by placing a bag of non-perishable food donations by their mailbox on Saturday, May 9. Letter carriers will collect the donations during their regular routes, and the food will go directly to local pantries helping families in need.
Organizers say more than 47 million Americans face food insecurity, including millions of children and seniors. Since the food drive began, letter carriers have helped collect more than 1.94 billion pounds of food nationwide.
Customers are encouraged to check with their letter carrier or local post office to confirm participation in their area.
Georgia Power Breaks Ground on New Plant to Support Data Centers
Georgia Power has broken ground on a new power plant project aimed at supporting the growing demand from data centers across the state.
The expansion is part of a much larger plan to increase energy production as Georgia continues to attract major technology companies and large-scale data operations. Officials say the new facility will help ensure reliable power as demand continues to rise.
State regulators have already approved a major increase in power generation capacity—nearly 10,000 megawatts—to meet that demand, much of it driven by the rapid growth of data centers.
Georgia Power says the investment is critical to maintaining economic growth and keeping up with the needs of businesses moving into the state. However, some critics have raised concerns about long-term costs and the environmental impact, especially with plans that include new natural gas-powered facilities.
The project is one of several underway as utilities work to balance reliability, affordability, and future energy needs in a rapidly growing region.
Georgia Drought Driving Up Hay Prices for Farmers and Livestock Owners
Ongoing drought conditions across Georgia are creating challenges for farmers and livestock owners, with hay supplies tightening and prices climbing.
Recent data shows nearly all of Georgia is experiencing some level of drought, putting stress on pastures and limiting grass growth needed for hay production.
Agriculture experts say reduced rainfall is cutting hay yields while at the same time increasing demand, forcing many farmers to either pay higher prices or secure hay earlier than usual. In some cases, producers are already planning ahead to avoid shortages later in the year.
The drought is also increasing production costs. Lower yields combined with rising expenses for fuel, fertilizer, and other inputs are pushing the cost per bale higher, meaning those price increases are being passed along to livestock owners.
Hay prices can vary widely depending on type and size, but in 2026, large round bales are commonly ranging from $60 to $160, with higher prices expected in drought-affected areas where supply is limited.
For farmers in Northwest Georgia, the situation is especially concerning as pasture conditions continue to struggle. Experts say careful management and planning will be critical as producers work through what could be a challenging growing season.
Ultimately, the drought’s impact on hay could ripple beyond the farm, affecting livestock operations, local agriculture, and potentially food prices if conditions persist.
Georgia Lawmakers Consider New Voting Maps After Supreme Court Ruling
Georgia lawmakers are weighing the possibility of drawing new voting district maps following a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that could reshape how election lines are created.
The ruling weakens a key provision of the Voting Rights Act, making it more difficult to challenge political maps unless intentional discrimination can be proven.
In response, some Republican leaders in Georgia are calling for the state to revisit and potentially redraw its congressional and legislative districts.
The issue comes as Georgia has already faced legal challenges over its district maps in recent years, including court-ordered changes ahead of upcoming elections.
Democratic leaders and voting rights advocates have raised concerns that the ruling could impact minority representation, while supporters say it could lead to what they describe as constitutionally drawn districts.
No final decision has been made, but the debate could have significant implications for future elections across Georgia.
Multicultural Festival Happening Today at LaFayette Farmers Market
A celebration of culture, food, and community is happening today in Walker County.
The “Corners of the World” Multicultural Festival is taking place this morning from 9 AM to 1 PM at the LaFayette Farmers Market Pavilion on East Villanow Street.
Organizers say the event will transform the market into an international experience, featuring over 70 vendors, a global marketplace, and interactive cultural stations for all ages.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of international foods, along with live music ranging from Irish and blues to reggae.
Guests are also encouraged to dress in clothing that represents their culture or one they admire, adding to the celebration of diversity.
Organizers say it’s a great opportunity to experience cultures from around the world—right in the heart of downtown LaFayette.
Coosa Man Arrested Following Rome Shooting
A Coosa man has been arrested in connection with a shooting that happened Wednesday at an apartment on North Avery Road in Rome.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 27-year-old Malik Tray Qurvas Curtis is accused of shooting a 24-year-old woman in the stomach, causing serious injuries.
Authorities say Curtis and the victim had been living together at the time of the incident.
Curtis is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault, aggravated battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
The investigation remains ongoing.