Two Suspects in Custody, One Still Sought After iPads Stolen From Trion Walmart
Two of the three suspects accused of stealing several iPads from the Walmart in Trion are now in custody, while law enforcement continues searching for a third suspect.
According to Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader, store employees attempted to stop the three men as they left the store Friday after they were suspected of shoplifting multiple iPads. The suspects fled before deputies arrived.
One suspect was initially apprehended Friday. Sheriff Schrader later announced that a second suspect has now been taken into custody, leaving one suspect still at large.
Authorities said the remaining suspect was last seen wearing green and black shorts with a black shirt. Sheriff Schrader has released a surveillance image of the suspect and is asking anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators believe the suspects may also be connected to other shoplifting incidents in Michigan and Dalton, Georgia.
The investigation remains active, and additional charges or arrests may be forthcoming.
Anyone with information on the remaining suspect is encouraged to contact the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.
Arrest Report - Saturday - July 11, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, July 11, 2026:
Storm Chances Increase This Weekend With Heavy Rain Possible Across Northwest Georgia
Hot and humid conditions will continue across Chattooga County and northwest Georgia this weekend, but increasing thunderstorm activity is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and some relief from the heat.
Saturday will begin with mostly sunny skies and a high near 90 degrees. Heat index values could reach 97 before showers and thunderstorms become more widespread after 5 p.m. Some storms may produce damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning and heavy rainfall. Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are possible across northwest Georgia through the weekend, with locally higher amounts where thunderstorms repeatedly develop.
The unsettled pattern continues Sunday and Monday, with widespread showers and thunderstorms likely both afternoons. Rain chances climb to 90 percent each day, and localized flash flooding will become a concern, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas.
While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few storms could become strong with damaging winds remaining the primary threat.
The increased clouds and rainfall will provide a welcome break from the recent extreme heat, with afternoon highs cooling into the middle 80s Sunday through Tuesday. By Wednesday, rain chances begin to decrease, and temperatures will gradually climb back into the upper 80s before returning to the lower 90s later next week.
Residents with outdoor plans this weekend should remain weather aware and be prepared to seek shelter if thunderstorms develop.
AdventHealth Invites Community To Celebrate Opening Of New Cancer Pavilion In Rome
AdventHealth is inviting the public to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of its new Cancer Pavilion in Rome.
The ceremony will be held Wednesday, July 15, at 4 p.m. at the AdventHealth Cancer Pavilion, located at 641 Braves Boulevard in Rome. Community members, local leaders and healthcare partners are invited to attend as AdventHealth officially opens the facility and marks a new chapter in cancer care for Northwest Georgia.
The new Cancer Pavilion brings a wide range of cancer services together under one roof, allowing patients to receive coordinated care closer to home.
The facility includes a Breast Center offering advanced mammography, bone-density scanning and diagnostic imaging technology. It also features experienced hematology and oncology specialists, a spacious infusion center for cancer treatments, and an on-site laboratory and pharmacy.
The program will include welcome remarks, special recognitions, a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a prayer of dedication for patients and members of the care team.
Following the ceremony, guests will be invited to enjoy light refreshments and drinks while taking self-guided tours of the new facility.
Operation Southern Slow Down Returns Monday as Five-State Crackdown Targets Speeding Drivers
Motorists traveling across Georgia and the Southeast next week can expect to see a much stronger law enforcement presence as the annual Operation Southern Slow Down campaign gets underway.
The week-long speed enforcement and public awareness campaign runs Monday, July 13, through Sunday, July 19, and includes coordinated efforts by law enforcement agencies in Georgia, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The initiative is designed to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities by cracking down on speeding, aggressive driving, and other dangerous traffic violations during one of the busiest travel periods of the summer.
The campaign officially kicks off Monday with simultaneous news conferences in Augusta, Columbus, Ringgold, Savannah, and Florida, where highway safety officials and law enforcement leaders will outline enforcement plans for the week. Officers from state patrols, sheriff’s offices, and local police departments will then spend the remainder of the week conducting high-visibility enforcement on interstates, major highways, and other heavily traveled roadways.
The campaign has grown significantly since it began in 2017. Last year, more than 490 law enforcement agencies across the five participating states issued 52,990 speeding citations and warnings during the seven-day enforcement period. Officers also made more than 1,440 DUI arrests, issued more than 2,230 citations and warnings for reckless driving, and cited more than 3,000 drivers for distracted driving violations.
Georgia agencies accounted for a substantial share of those enforcement efforts. During the 2025 campaign, more than 230 Georgia law enforcement agencies made over 13,290 speeding contacts with motorists. Officers also arrested 501 impaired drivers, issued more than 1,875 warnings and citations for violations of Georgia’s Hands-Free Law, and cited or warned more than 2,470 motorists for failing to wear seat belts.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 30 percent of all traffic fatalities nationwide in 2024 involved speeding. Georgia crash statistics show speed was a contributing factor in one out of every five fatal crashes in the state between 2020 and 2024.
Officials say speeding doesn’t just endanger the driver who chooses to ignore the speed limit. A Georgia Traffic Safety Fact Sheet found that in 2023, 53 percent of those killed or seriously injured in multi-vehicle speed-related crashes were not the speeding driver. About 35 percent were occupants of another vehicle, 16 percent were passengers riding with the speeding driver, and 2 percent were pedestrians or bicyclists.
“Speed limits are in place to protect everyone traveling on our roads and highways, and enforcement of speeding and all traffic laws has proven to save lives in our region and nation,” said Allen Poole, Director of the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. “The goal for Operation Southern Slow Down is not to write tickets but to get more drivers to see that traveling at slower and safer speeds prevents families and friends from losing loved ones in crashes that are preventable.”
Highway safety officials are also reminding drivers that the increased patrols coincide with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Speeding Slows You Down” campaign, which runs through July 30.
Motorists are encouraged to obey posted speed limits, avoid distracted driving, buckle up, and never drive impaired. Drivers should also remember Georgia’s Move Over Law, which requires motorists to move over when safe to do so—or slow to at least 10 mph below the posted speed limit—when passing emergency vehicles stopped on the roadside with flashing lights activated.
Safety officials also recommend giving speeding drivers plenty of room, allowing tailgaters to pass when it is safe, staying out of the left lane except when passing, and making seat belt use a habit on every trip.
Southeast First National Bank Donates To Chattooga County School Athletic Programs
Southeast First National Bank has made a donation to support athletic programs throughout the Chattooga County School System.
The contribution was presented by Suzanne Hurley-Bowman and Barry Hurley of Southeast First National Bank to Chattooga County School System Superintendent Dr. Michelle Helie and Chief Academic Officer Robert Beach.
Barry Hurley said the bank remains committed to supporting local schools and organizations that serve the community and its young people.
“We are proud that over the years we have been able to support our school systems and other entities that serve the citizens and youth of our community,” Hurley said.
School officials expressed their appreciation for the contribution, noting that partnerships with local businesses help strengthen athletic opportunities and provide additional support for student-athletes across the Chattooga County School System.
West Nile Virus concerns have public health officials reminding about mosquito-bite prevention
Public health officials are urging Northwest Georgia residents to take precautions against mosquito bites as the 2026 West Nile virus season gets underway earlier and more aggressively than it has in more than two decades.
Dr. Gary Voccio, health director for the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Northwest Health District, said officials are concerned about how the season may develop over the coming weeks.
As of July 7, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had reported 56 human cases of West Nile virus across 15 states. No human cases had been reported in Georgia, but the virus had been detected in mosquitoes in Fulton and Chatham counties.
The CDC previously said the country was experiencing its earliest West Nile virus season since 2004, with case totals well above the average normally reported by the end of June.
West Nile virus is primarily spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and can then transmit the virus when biting humans. The virus is not spread through casual contact with another person or by handling birds.
Health officials are encouraging residents to follow the “Five Ds of Prevention”:
Dusk and Dawn: Limit outdoor activity during these times, when mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are often most active.
Dress: Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks to reduce exposed skin.
DEET: Use an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
Drain: Empty containers that collect standing water, which can become mosquito breeding grounds.
Doors: Make sure doors and windows close tightly and repair torn or damaged screens.
Voccio said removing standing water is one of the most effective steps residents can take around their homes. Flowerpots, buckets, children’s toys, wading pools, old tires, bottles and cans should be emptied or removed after rainfall and at least once each week.
Residents should also keep gutters and roof eaves clear of leaves and debris that may trap stagnant water.
When using sunscreen and mosquito repellent together, health officials recommend applying sunscreen first and insect repellent afterward. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing can also help reduce mosquito bites.
Symptoms of West Nile virus may develop three to 15 days after an infected mosquito bite and can include fever, headache, neck discomfort, muscle and joint pain, swollen lymph nodes and a rash.
Older adults, people with weakened immune systems and those with underlying medical conditions face a greater risk of developing serious complications.
Anyone with questions or symptoms should contact a healthcare provider or their local county health department. West Nile virus is the most commonly reported locally acquired mosquito-borne disease in Georgia.
Godfrey’s Tree Service Organizes GoFundMe For Trion Family After July 4 Storm Damage
Kevin Godfrey and Lacey Gilreath with Godfrey’s Tree Service have organized a GoFundMe campaign to help a Trion family whose home was heavily damaged during severe storms on July 4, 2026.
Godfrey’s Tree Service was called to the home of Norman and Janice Gaither after a massive oak tree crashed through the residence, tearing through the living room, dining room, kitchen, and other areas of the home.
Five family members were inside when the tree fell, including three young children. Norman and Janice Gaither were in the home along with their daughter, Loren, son-in-law Justin Baker, and the couple’s three children, Ava, 9, Caden, 6, and Easton, 2.
Despite the extensive damage, everyone survived with only bruises and scratches.
The Gaither family has lived in the home for nearly 33 years. While homeowners insurance is expected to help cover the cost of removing the tree and repairing major structural damage, it will not replace many of the household belongings that were lost.
Loren homeschools Ava and Caden, and the area where the children completed their schoolwork was destroyed. The family lost homeschool curriculum and supplies, furniture, kitchen items, and other everyday necessities. They have also been displaced from their home while repairs are underway.
Godfrey and Gilreath organized the fundraiser to help the family replace items not covered by insurance and meet other needs during the rebuilding process.
Norman Gaither has also served the country for more than 39 years. He spent more than 12 years on active duty in the United States Air Force before continuing his service with the Tennessee Army National Guard and Tennessee Air National Guard, including a deployment to the Persian Gulf.
Those wishing to help may donate through the GoFundMe campaign at https://gofund.me/e0effad64.
Residents who are unable to contribute financially are encouraged to share the fundraiser and keep the Gaither and Baker families in their thoughts and prayers.
Paradise Garden Foundation Among Recipients of State Arts Grants
The Georgia Department of Economic Development has announced more than $1.3 million in competitive grant funding for arts organizations across the state, with 179 grants awarded in 37 counties during the first round of Georgia Council for the Arts fiscal year 2027 funding. The grants support nonprofit arts organizations, community projects, and arts education programs.
Chattooga County is among the recipients. The Paradise Garden Foundation in Summerville received a $10,000 General Operating Support Grant, which provides funding to help nonprofit arts organizations with day-to-day operating expenses and programming.
State officials say the grants help strengthen communities by supporting festivals, museums, theater productions, educational programs, and other arts initiatives that attract visitors, enhance downtowns, and contribute to local economies.
Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson said the arts play a vital role in communities of all sizes, helping create vibrant downtowns, support small businesses, and provide students with opportunities to develop creativity and problem-solving skills.
The grants are funded through appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional Georgia Council for the Arts funding through the Vibrant Communities and Cultural Facilities grant programs is expected to be announced later this fall.
Georgia June Tax Collections Down, But Fiscal Year Ends Slightly Ahead
Georgia’s net tax collections fell in June, but the state still ended Fiscal Year 2026 slightly ahead of the previous year.
According to the Governor’s Office, June net tax revenue totaled nearly $2.95 billion, down $215.1 million, or 6.8 percent, compared to June of last year. However, year-to-date collections through June 30 totaled $33.75 billion, an increase of $129.5 million, or 0.4 percent, over Fiscal Year 2025.
State officials say the monthly comparison was heavily affected by Georgia’s motor fuel excise tax suspension, which began March 20 and remained in effect until June 3. Without the motor fuel tax impact, June revenues were down only 0.6 percent, while full-year collections were up nearly 1.6 percent.
Individual income tax collections were down 6.7 percent in June, while sales tax collections increased 6.8 percent and corporate income tax collections rose 7 percent. Motor fuel tax collections dropped 98.5 percent, reflecting the temporary suspension ordered by Governor Brian Kemp.
Motor vehicle tag and title fees and title ad valorem tax collections were also down compared to June 2025.
AAA Urges Families to Help Teen Drivers Build Safe Habits During Summer Months
As newly licensed teenagers spend more time behind the wheel this summer, AAA is encouraging families to make safety a priority by participating in its “100 Days of Safe Driving” campaign.
The organization says summer is often the first true test for new drivers, bringing increased independence, nighttime driving, road trips, and more time spent driving with friends. Those situations can challenge even the most responsible young drivers.
According to AAA, 2,636 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers in 2024, with many of those fatal crashes occurring during the summer months. The organization says the first several months of independent driving are critical in developing lifelong safe driving habits.
AAA recommends parents remain actively involved after their teen earns a driver’s license by continuing supervised driving in a variety of conditions, including nighttime and heavy traffic. Families are also encouraged to establish clear rules limiting phone use, nighttime driving, and the number of teen passengers.
The organization advises teaching teens defensive driving techniques, including staying alert, anticipating the actions of other drivers, and adjusting speed for weather and road conditions. Parents are also reminded that modeling safe driving behavior themselves can have a lasting impact.
AAA also encourages teens to be prepared for unexpected situations by knowing how to safely pull off the road, respond to minor crashes or breakdowns, contact emergency services when necessary, and access roadside assistance.
The organization is also reminding motorists that summer celebrations often bring an increase in impaired driving. According to AAA’s crash analysis, nearly one in three summertime traffic fatalities involves an impaired driver. Anyone planning to drink or use impairing substances is encouraged to arrange a sober ride before heading out.
Families are also advised to review their auto insurance coverage before teens begin driving regularly on their own to ensure they have appropriate protection.
To help build driving skills, AAA offers online driver education resources and access to its network of AAA Approved Driving Schools.
Officials say the goal is to help new drivers build smart habits now that will carry with them for years to come.
One Suspect In Custody, Two Sought Following Alleged Shoplifting At Trion Walmart
One man is in custody and two others remain at large following an alleged shoplifting incident Friday at Walmart in Trion.
According to Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader, three men were stopped while leaving the store after they were believed to have stolen several iPads.
Authorities say the suspects fled the scene before Chattooga County Sheriff’s deputies arrived. Law enforcement was able to apprehend one of the three men, while the other two remained at large as of Friday night.
Sheriff Schrader said investigators believe the three men may also be connected to other shoplifting incidents in Michigan and in Dalton, Georgia.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information has not yet been released.
WZQZ will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Arrest Report - Friday - July 10, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, July 10, 2026:
Showers and Storms Increase This Afternoon as Wet Weekend Takes Shape Across Northwest Georgia
After another hot summer morning, weather conditions across Chattooga County and northwest Georgia are expected to become increasingly active this afternoon as a series of disturbances brings a higher chance of showers and thunderstorms through the weekend and into early next week.
For today, skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 92 degrees. Heat index values could reach 98 degrees before scattered showers and thunderstorms begin developing after 2 p.m. West winds of 5 to 10 mph may gust up to 15 mph. While many storms will produce heavy rain and frequent lightning, a few stronger storms could also generate damaging wind gusts.
Rain chances increase significantly on Saturday, with thunderstorms becoming widespread during the afternoon and continuing into Saturday night. Showers and thunderstorms are also expected on Sunday and Monday, with rain chances ranging from 70 to 80 percent. Although the weekend is not expected to be a complete washout, outdoor activities will likely be interrupted by periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms.
The increased cloud cover and rainfall will also bring relief from the recent heat. High temperatures are expected to fall into the upper 80s Sunday before cooling into the lower to middle 80s by Monday and Tuesday. By the middle of next week, rain chances gradually decrease while temperatures begin climbing back toward 90 degrees.
Residents planning outdoor events this weekend should monitor the forecast closely and be prepared to move indoors if thunderstorms develop.
Chattooga County to Hold Public Meeting Today on Proposed Moratorium for Tiny Home and Non-Traditional Developments
Chattooga County residents will have an opportunity today to learn more about and comment on a proposed temporary moratorium affecting certain non-traditional residential developments.
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has scheduled a public meeting to discuss a proposal that would temporarily pause approval of certain types of developments while the county reviews its land use regulations and determines whether updates are needed.
According to a public notice issued by the Commissioner’s Office, the proposed moratorium would apply to projects including cargo container homes and structures, tiny home developments, multi-service community developments, and other similar non-traditional residential or mixed-use developments that may be identified during the review process.
The public meeting will be held today (Friday) at 10 a.m. in the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, located at 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville. Allen is encouraging residents, property owners, developers, and other interested citizens to attend and provide comments before any action is taken on the proposal.
According to Allen, the purpose of the proposed moratorium is to provide time to review the county’s existing land use regulations, evaluate the potential impacts of these types of developments, and determine whether changes to county ordinances are necessary to protect the health, safety, welfare, and orderly growth of Chattooga County.
Allen said the county has seen increased interest from developers proposing tiny home communities and other alternative housing projects. Rather than allowing those developments to move forward without clearly defined standards, he believes the county should first evaluate whether its current regulations adequately address the unique issues they present.
As part of that review, Allen said the county will examine a number of planning considerations, including minimum lot size requirements, infrastructure capacity, septic and utility availability, road access, fire protection and emergency services, and long-term land use planning.
Allen emphasized that the proposal is not intended to prohibit tiny homes or other alternative housing options. Instead, he said the temporary moratorium would give the county an opportunity to establish clear standards to help ensure future developments can be adequately served by public infrastructure and are compatible with the county’s long-term planning goals.
The review will also consider how larger non-traditional residential and mixed-use developments could affect surrounding rural communities. If adopted, the moratorium would be temporary while the county completes its evaluation and determines whether revisions to local ordinances are warranted.
Allen said today’s meeting is intended to ensure the public has an opportunity to be informed and participate in the discussion before any decision is made regarding the proposed moratorium.
John Deere Reaches Landmark Right-to-Repair Settlement, Expanding Repair Access for Farmers
A landmark settlement between John Deere, the Federal Trade Commission, and five state attorneys general is expected to significantly change how farmers repair their equipment, giving owners and independent repair shops access to many of the same tools previously available only to authorized John Deere dealerships.
The 10-year agreement resolves an antitrust lawsuit that alleged Deere unlawfully restricted access to diagnostic software and repair capabilities, forcing farmers to rely on authorized dealers for many repairs and increasing repair costs and downtime. Deere did not admit wrongdoing as part of the settlement.
Under the agreement, John Deere must provide farmers and independent repair providers with the same repair resources currently available to its dealer network on fair and reasonable terms. That includes electronic diagnostic software capable of reading, clearing, and resetting fault codes; the ability to reprogram electronic components and pair replacement parts with equipment; and tools to restart equipment following emissions-related shutdowns, commonly known as “limp mode.” Farmers and independent technicians will also gain access to technical manuals, troubleshooting information, product improvement programs, and other repair guidance used by dealership service departments.
The settlement also requires Deere to make future repair resources available once they have been deployed to more than half of its authorized dealer network. In addition, the company must notify customers about the availability of these resources, instruct dealers to support their use, and refrain from retaliating against farmers or independent repair shops that choose to perform their own repairs rather than using dealership service departments. The FTC will oversee Deere’s compliance with the agreement for the next 10 years.
The announcement is being hailed as a major victory for the growing “right-to-repair” movement, which has argued that owners should be able to maintain and repair the equipment they purchase without unnecessary manufacturer restrictions. Advocates say expanded access to software and diagnostic tools could reduce costly downtime during planting and harvest seasons, when waiting for dealership service can have significant financial consequences.
The FTC said the agreement is intended to increase competition in the agricultural equipment repair market while lowering costs and giving farmers more flexibility in deciding who repairs their machinery.
VA Claims Backlog Falls Below 70,000 for First Time Since 2020
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has announced a major milestone in processing disability claims, with the backlog of veterans waiting for benefits dropping below 70,000 for the first time in more than six years.
According to the VA, the number of disability compensation and pension claims pending longer than 125 days—the department’s definition of a backlog—has fallen below the 70,000 mark for the first time since February 2020. The agency says the backlog has been reduced by more than 74 percent since January 2025.
The VA also reports that it is processing claims faster than at any point in its history. The average time to complete a disability compensation or pension claim is now 77.7 days, a record low. Since the beginning of 2025, the department says it has completed more than one million claims in fewer than 30 days.
VA Secretary Doug Collins said the improvements mean faster decisions, better service, and quicker access to benefits for veterans and their families.
The agency also highlighted several additional accomplishments over the past year, including opening 38 new VA health care facilities, processing more than 3 million disability compensation and pension claims during Fiscal Year 2025, offering veterans more than 3 million appointments outside normal business hours, and permanently housing 51,936 homeless veterans, the highest annual total in seven years.
Veterans who have not yet applied for benefits or health care are encouraged to visit VA.gov or Choose.VA.gov to learn more about available programs and begin the application process.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter at Capacity, Urgent Homes Needed for Six Dogs
The Friends of the Chattooga County Animal Shelter is asking for the public’s help after announcing the shelter has reached full capacity and is in urgent need of adopters, foster families, and rescue organizations.
Shelter volunteers say dogs continue to arrive daily from emergency situations, and there is now an intake waiting list. With every kennel currently occupied, officials say opening even one space could mean saving another animal in need.
Six dogs have been identified as needing placement as soon as possible:
- Macy, a 1- to 2-year-old female weighing about 70 pounds.
- Lucy, a 6-month-old female weighing about 35 pounds.
- Carmelo, a 6-month-old male weighing about 30 pounds.
- Lucky, a 6-month-old female weighing about 35 pounds.
- Zoe, a spayed 2-year-old female weighing about 50 pounds.
- Oscar, a 1-year-old male weighing about 50 pounds.
According to the shelter, all six dogs have been vaccinated for DHPP and Bordetella.
Anyone interested in adopting, fostering, or arranging rescue placement is encouraged to contact the Chattooga County Animal Shelter as soon as possible.
The shelter is located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville. It can be reached by email at Charlie.Long@chattoogacounty.gov or by phone at 706-857-0679.
Shelter hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Wednesday visits are available by appointment.
The Friends of the Chattooga County Animal Shelter is also encouraging residents to share the information on social media, noting that a simple share could help connect one of these dogs with a forever home.
Homer Man Indicted In Chattooga County Child Molestation Case
A Homer man has been indicted by a Chattooga County Grand Jury on child molestation-related charges, according to court records.
Dennis Harley Taylor was charged with three counts of aggravated child molestation, three counts of child molestation, and one count of enticing a child for indecent purposes.
Investigators say the alleged offenses involved a young boy and occurred between September 8 and November 29, 2023. Taylor was arrested on March 29.
The case will proceed through Chattooga County Superior Court. As with all criminal cases, Taylor is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Lyerly Accepting Vendor Applications for Down Home Day Celebration
The Town of Lyerly is now accepting vendor applications for its annual Down Home Day celebration, scheduled for Saturday, September 26, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Vendor spaces are available for $15 per spot, and organizers are inviting local businesses, artisans, crafters, food vendors, and community organizations to participate in the popular community event.
Those interested in reserving a space can comment directly on the Town of Lyerly’s Facebook post, send a private message to the Lyerly, Georgia Facebook page or Sally Kerce, or call Lyerly Town Hall at 706-895-2611.
Town officials are also warning prospective vendors to be aware of scammers. According to the town, individuals attempted to impersonate event organizers on Facebook last year by offering vendor spaces for $150 and requesting payment through social media.
Officials stress that no one should send money through Facebook for vendor registration. Applications and payments should only be handled through the official Town of Lyerly Facebook page, Sally Kerce, or Lyerly Town Hall.
Down Home Day is one of Lyerly’s signature annual events, featuring vendors, local businesses, food, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.