Trion Celebrates Homecoming Tonight As Chattooga Travels To Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe
Both Chattooga County high school football teams will be in action tonight, with the Trion Bulldogs celebrating homecoming and the Chattooga Indians traveling to Fort Oglethorpe for a region matchup.
The Trion Bulldogs will host the Manchester Blue Devils tonight at Sam R. McCain Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 PM.
Trion enters tonight’s contest with a 6-2 overall record and a 1-1 mark in Region 7-A competition. The Bulldogs will be looking to bounce back after suffering a 34-7 loss to Bowdon last Friday night.
That defeat ended a five-game winning streak for Trion, which included a 50-0 shutout victory over Greenville on October 9.
Manchester comes into tonight’s game with a 3-5 record. The Blue Devils defeated Greenville 50-8 last Friday night and will be looking to build on that victory.
Homecoming festivities will add to the excitement at Sam R. McCain Stadium. Trion held its annual homecoming parade Thursday evening, and tonight’s celebration will include recognition of the school’s homecoming court.
Meanwhile, the Chattooga Indians will travel to Fort Oglethorpe to take on the Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe Warriors, with kickoff also scheduled for 7:30 PM.
Chattooga enters the game with a 1-6 record overall and a 1-2 record in Region 7-AA play.
The Indians are hoping to rebound from last Friday night’s 54-14 loss to Dade County at the Little Big Horn in Summerville.
Chattooga’s lone victory this season came on October 2, when the Indians defeated Gordon Central 38-22 in their homecoming game.
Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe also enters tonight’s contest with a 1-6 record. The Warriors lost to Fannin County 45-14 last Friday night.
Tonight’s game will also be homecoming for Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe, meaning both Chattooga County teams will be participating in homecoming matchups.
WZQZ will broadcast the Trion homecoming game live tonight on FM 99.1, with Paul Cavin, Jeremy Burke and Sam Kholer bringing listeners all the action from Sam R. McCain Stadium.
Both games will also be streamed live on Facebook.
The Trion broadcast will be available on the WZQZ Facebook page, while Chris “Bubba” Wilson, Steiner Davis and Mason Gilreath will provide coverage of the Chattooga Indians’ game at Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe.
Fans can follow both teams throughout the evening with WZQZ, Your Hometown Radio Station.
Chattooga High School Wins Gold Cup At Northwest Georgia Skills Challenge
Chattooga High School’s construction and welding students brought home the Gold Cup from the Northwest Georgia Skills Challenge held Thursday in Rome, earning multiple first-place finishes and demonstrating their skills against students from across the region.
The competition, organized by the Associated General Contractors of Georgia in partnership with SkillsUSA, was held at the Forum River Center and featured students competing in a variety of skilled trades.
Chattooga High School earned five first-place finishes, including individual championships in masonry, welding and cabinetmaking, along with team victories in TeamWorks and welding fabrication.
The school’s Career, Technical and Agricultural Education program announced the results Thursday evening, congratulating students for their accomplishments.
In the individual competitions, Cody Corbin won first place in masonry, while Jude Chestnut captured first place in welding. Gunner Henderson finished second in welding.
Corbin Wiggins earned first place in cabinetmaking, with Brian Durham taking third place in the same competition.
David Mangan finished second in carpentry, while Camp Bullard earned third place in plumbing.
Chattooga also had an outstanding showing in the team competitions.
The TeamWorks team of Oaklyn Young, Kylor Kellett, Ben Howard and Gabriel Pauley captured first place, demonstrating their ability to work together on construction-related projects.
The school’s welding fabrication team of Gunnar Allen, Skylar Ward and Rylan Green also earned first place.
The strong performance earned Chattooga High School the competition’s Gold Cup, adding another major accomplishment for the school’s career and technical education programs.
Chattooga CTAE officials credited construction instructor Bengi Price and welding instructor Carter Woodall for their work preparing students for the competition and helping them develop skills for future careers.
School officials said the students’ hard work, dedication and technical abilities were reflected in their success at the regional competition.
The Northwest Georgia Skills Challenge gives high school students opportunities to demonstrate hands-on skills in construction and related trades while connecting career education with the region’s workforce needs.
Chattooga High School’s performance Thursday continues a tradition of success at the regional competition, where the school also earned the top team award in 2025.
Trenton Man Convicted Of Rape And Child Sex Trafficking In Dade County
A 53-year-old Trenton man has been convicted of multiple sexual offenses involving two minor victims following a two-day jury trial in Dade County.
According to a news release issued Thursday by the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, Virgil Travis Gilliam, 53, of Trenton, was found guilty of rape, aggravated sodomy, three counts of aggravated child molestation, trafficking of a minor for sexual servitude and three counts of child molestation.
The trial concluded Tuesday, October 20, before Chief Judge Brian House.
Prosecutors said evidence presented during the trial showed that Gilliam sexually assaulted a four-year-old girl and trafficked the child for sexual purposes by taking her to other men’s homes in exchange for money.
The allegations came to light several years after the abuse when the child disclosed what had happened to Dade County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Chris Gravitt.
A subsequent forensic interview at a Children’s Advocacy Center revealed additional allegations of sexual and physical abuse. Prosecutors said a medical examination documented injuries consistent with the child’s disclosures.
During the investigation, authorities identified a second victim who reported being sexually assaulted by Gilliam at age 15. Investigators also discovered material on Gilliam’s cell phone referencing incest and sex trafficking.
Prosecutors presented additional evidence concerning Gilliam’s past, including allegations involving a 13-year-old girl in Dade County in 1995 and another 13-year-old girl in DeKalb County, Alabama, in 2010.
According to the District Attorney’s Office, Gilliam had not previously been arrested or formally charged in connection with those earlier incidents.
Senior Assistant District Attorney Kevin Baugh prosecuted the case with assistance from members of the District Attorney’s Office and investigators.
Following the verdict, Baugh praised Investigator Gravitt and the Dade County Sheriff’s Office for their work on the case, saying the investigation and evidence were crucial in securing the convictions.
Members of B.A.C.A., Bikers Against Child Abuse, attended the trial to provide support for the victims.
Gilliam has not yet been sentenced. Prosecutors say a sentencing hearing is expected next week.
Under Georgia law, Gilliam faces a maximum potential sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Free Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway For Veterans Planned In Rome
Veterans and military families across Northwest Georgia will have an opportunity to receive a free Thanksgiving turkey next month during a special event in Rome.
United Military Care, in partnership with Sysco, will host the “Give Thanks for Those Who Served” turkey giveaway on Saturday, November 7, at the Rome Civic Center.
The event will take place from 11 AM until 3 PM, with one free turkey available per eligible family.
The giveaway is open to veterans, active-duty military personnel, National Guard members, reservists, military dependents whose service member is currently deployed, and spouses of veterans who have military identification cards.
Advance registration is required, and participants must register before arriving at the event.
Those registering will receive an email confirmation containing pickup instructions and directions. Organizers encourage participants to make sure their email addresses are entered correctly when registering.
Participants must also bring documentation verifying their military service or eligibility. Acceptable identification includes a Veterans Affairs identification card, a driver’s license showing veteran status, a DD-214 discharge document, military identification or other qualifying military paperwork.
Organizers say turkeys will not be held for participants who arrive after the scheduled distribution hours.
The giveaway is intended to recognize the service of military veterans while providing assistance to families preparing for the Thanksgiving holiday.
Veterans in Chattooga County and surrounding communities are welcome to participate if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Registration information is available through the City of Rome’s official website at romega.us.
Anyone with questions about eligibility or required documentation may contact United Military Care at 770-973-0014.
Chattooga Historical Society To Hold Fall Meeting At Historic Lyerly Home
The Chattooga County Historical Society will hold its annual fall meeting next month at one of the county’s historic homes, offering visitors an opportunity to explore local history and learn about the preservation of a landmark property.
The meeting is scheduled for Sunday, November 8, at 2 PM, at the Finley-Sanford home, located at 3065 Holland-Chattoogaville Road in Lyerly.
The historic home was built in 1832, before the Cherokee Removal, on land purchased by Samuel Finley from the Cherokee Land Lottery. The property eventually became home to several generations of the Finley family.
The Finley family was closely connected to the development of the surrounding community. Major Sam Mosteller, who lived on the property, operated a general store nearby and also served as a minister.
In the early 1970s, Carl and Tippy Sanford purchased the property from Miss Miriam Finley and began restoration and preservation efforts that continue today.
Miriam Finley, who was known for her interest in local history, served as an unofficial historian of the Holland community and was an active member of the Chattooga County Historical Society.
During the November 8 meeting, Tippy Sanford will welcome visitors to the home. Guests will have an opportunity to view before-and-after photographs of the restoration, along with furniture, antiques and other historical features of the property.
Refreshments featuring old-fashioned baked goods will be served, and members of the Chattooga Garden Club will provide seasonal arrangements for the tour.
The Historical Society will also have keepsake Christmas ornaments available for purchase. This year’s ornament features a steam locomotive crossing the steel bridge at Trion, commemorating the area’s railroad history.
Historical Society President Gene McGinnis said the meeting will offer an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the home, with docents available to answer questions.
The meeting is open to the public, and anyone interested in Chattooga County history is encouraged to attend.
The Chattooga County Historical Society has nearly 300 member families and welcomes new members. Annual membership is $20 and includes a quarterly publication.
For additional information, residents may contact P.O. Box 626, Summerville, Georgia 30747, or email chattoogahistory@outlook.com.
Veterans Group Plans $10,000 Raffle
The Veterans for the American Flag organization is planning a $10,000 raffle next month, with the drawing scheduled during a special celebration in Summerville.
The raffle will be held Saturday, November 7, in conjunction with a celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps.
The event will take place on Scott Hill, just south of Summerville and below the large American flag.
Raffle tickets are available for $50 each and may be purchased at Bryant and Sons in Summerville or Mathis Builders in Rome and Battlefield Supply in Calhoun.
Tickets are also available through members of the Veterans for the American Flag organization.
The drawing will take place during the November 7 celebration, with the winner receiving $10,000.
The raffle is being organized by Veterans for the American Flag, a local group associated with the large American flag displayed on Scott Hill.
Menlo City Council Approves Ordinance Prohibiting Camping On Public Property
The Menlo City Council has approved a new ordinance prohibiting camping and certain other activities on public property within the city limits.
Council members unanimously approved the ordinance on its second reading during Tuesday evening’s meeting, following a first reading last week.
Mayor Kris Willis said the ordinance was developed in response to concerns about homeless individuals living in the city’s park. Willis told council members that, on two occasions, the city had to deal with overnight guests using the park. He said he believes those individuals were from outside Menlo.
The new ordinance, titled the Camping and Improper Use of Public Areas Ordinance, makes it unlawful for anyone within the city limits to camp in a public area or interfere with others entering or leaving buildings, private property or public areas.
The ordinance defines camping broadly, including sleeping or preparing to sleep, laying down bedding, storing personal belongings, making a fire, cooking or using a tent or other structure for habitation.
Public areas covered by the ordinance include streets, sidewalks, parking lots, parks, playgrounds, schools, transportation facilities and other city-owned property. The ordinance also applies to other property where the public regularly gathers or meets.
Violators may be cited or arrested after receiving a verbal or written warning to stop the prohibited activity. Anyone who fails to promptly comply with the warning may face additional enforcement action.
Personal property left behind in violation of the ordinance may be considered abandoned and confiscated by the city without prior warning. The ordinance requires the city to retain confiscated property in the same manner as other property confiscated or abandoned.
The ordinance includes exceptions for people attending public events, festivals or other activities authorized by the city, as well as city employees and agencies performing their official duties.
The ordinance takes effect immediately.
Georgia Power Unveils New Battery Storage Facility At Former Plant Hammond
Georgia Power has unveiled a new battery energy storage facility at the former Plant Hammond site in Floyd County, marking a new chapter for the property that once housed a major coal-fired power plant.
The company showcased the facility Wednesday, October 21, after the system began operating the previous Friday.
The new facility can deliver approximately 57.5 megawatts of electricity for up to four hours, allowing Georgia Power to store energy when demand and costs are lower and release it back onto the electrical grid when demand increases.
Kenneth Poole, Georgia Power’s Compliance and Support Manager for Renewable and Resilient Generation, said the technology is designed to help lower electricity costs by reducing the need to bring more expensive power sources online during periods of high demand.
The facility currently includes 68 battery containers, with plans to eventually expand to approximately 250 containers. The batteries are manufactured by Tesla and use lithium iron phosphate technology.
According to Georgia Power officials, the batteries carry a 15-year guarantee, although the company expects them to remain operational for approximately 20 years.
Safety measures include liquid-cooled battery systems, and local firefighters have received specialized training to respond to potential emergencies at the facility.
The project is located at the former Plant Hammond coal-fired power station, which began operating in 1954 and was retired in 2019. At its peak, the plant’s four generating units were capable of producing approximately 800 megawatts of electricity.
Georgia Power is repurposing existing electrical infrastructure at the site, allowing the company to take advantage of established transmission connections rather than building an entirely new facility.
The Hammond project is part of a larger statewide investment in battery storage technology intended to improve electrical reliability and help Georgia meet growing energy demands.
Northwest Georgia Unemployment Rate Rises Slightly As Employment Reaches Record High
Northwest Georgia’s unemployment rate increased slightly in the latest labor market report, even as the region recorded all-time highs in both its labor force and the number of people employed.
According to the Georgia Department of Labor, the region’s unemployment rate rose one-tenth of a percentage point to 3.4 percent, compared with 3.3 percent the previous month. The rate was also 3.3 percent during the same period last year.
Despite the slight increase in unemployment, Northwest Georgia continued to see significant growth in its workforce.
The region’s labor force increased by 6,163 people over the month, reaching an all-time high of 467,432. That represents an increase of 12,004 people compared with a year earlier.
The number of employed residents also reached a record high of 451,603, an increase of 5,338 over the month and 10,995 over the year.
Meanwhile, initial unemployment claims increased to 2,053, up 695 from the previous month and 102 compared with the same period last year.
Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes said continued regional growth is helping strengthen the state’s economy and workforce.
“Momentum is building across Georgia,” Holmes said. “With sustained regional growth, our strong economy and competitive workforce drive continuous opportunity.”
The Northwest Georgia labor market region includes Chattooga County and surrounding counties.
The latest figures show that while unemployment edged upward, the region continues to attract additional workers and support record employment levels.
Woman Arrested Following Contraband Investigation At Hays State Prison
The Georgia Department of Corrections has released information about the arrest of a woman accused of bringing contraband into Hays State Prison in Trion.
According to a report released Monday, October 19, the incident occurred September 20, when a civilian identified as Charlene Seechan passed through a body scanner at the prison’s front entrance.
Prison security personnel reportedly noticed a set of earbuds and a charging block on the floor after Seechan exited the scanner.
Investigators subsequently reviewed surveillance footage from previous visits and noticed what corrections officials described as suspicious activity.
According to the Department of Corrections, Seechan was questioned about those earlier visits and admitted to bringing contraband into the facility.
The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office arrested Seechan in connection with the investigation.
The incident was included in a statewide report detailing contraband-related arrests at Georgia correctional facilities.
The Department of Corrections did not specify what additional contraband Seechan allegedly brought into the prison during previous visits.
Deadline For Tooga Theatre Renovation Bids Is Today
Contractors interested in participating in the first phase of renovations to the historic Tooga Theatre in downtown Summerville have until 5 PM today, Friday, October 23, to submit their bids to Chattooga County.
The deadline marks another step in the county’s efforts to restore the historic theatre and bring new life to the downtown landmark.
Chattooga County reopened the bidding process in September after two contractors expressed interest during an earlier round of bidding but requested additional time to prepare their proposals.
The first phase of the renovation project includes demolition, extensive interior renovations, improvements to the rear portion of the building, upgrades to the ticket booth and front entrance, and the installation of audiovisual and information technology equipment. The project also includes furnishings, fixtures and other improvements needed to restore the facility.
The renovation is being supported by a $1 million Appalachian Regional Commission grant, part of an approximately $1.37 million project aimed at revitalizing the historic theatre.
Sealed bids must be delivered to the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office at 10102 Commerce Street in Summerville by 5 PM today. Late bids will not be accepted.
The bids are scheduled to be publicly opened and read aloud at 10 AM Tuesday, October 27, at the Commissioner’s Office.
The upcoming bid opening will provide a clearer picture of contractor interest and potential costs as the county continues working toward the restoration of the Tooga Theatre.
Lewis Street Closed Overnight In Summerville For Water Main Repairs
The City of Summerville Water Department has announced an overnight road closure on Lewis Street as crews work to repair a water main.
Lewis Street will be closed between West Washington Street and Georgia Avenue Thursday night, October 22, and is expected to reopen Friday morning, October 23.
City officials say residents living along the affected section of Lewis Street will still be able to access their homes while repairs are underway.
Motorists traveling through the area should plan to use alternate routes until the work is completed and the road is reopened.
The City of Summerville apologized for the inconvenience and thanked residents for their patience while crews complete the necessary repairs.
Arrest Report - Thursday - October 22, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Thursday, October 22, 2026:
Pleasant Fall Temperatures Continue Across Chattooga County As High Fire Danger Persists
Residents across Chattooga County can expect another stretch of beautiful fall weather, with sunny skies, comfortable afternoon temperatures and cool nights continuing through the middle of next week. However, the National Weather Service is warning that dry conditions will increase the danger of outdoor fires today.
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City has issued a High Fire Danger Statement for most of north and central Georgia, including Chattooga County, through 7 PM Thursday. Forecasters say relative humidity levels could drop to 28 percent or lower for four or more hours during the afternoon and early evening.
Combined with dry vegetation, the low humidity will create conditions favorable for fires to spread. Residents are urged to use extreme caution with any outdoor burning and check with local authorities concerning burning restrictions.
Thursday’s forecast calls for sunny skies and a high near 74 degrees. North winds will blow at 5 to 10 miles per hour, with occasional gusts reaching 15 miles per hour. Skies will remain clear Thursday night, with temperatures falling to around 46 degrees.
Friday will bring another sunny day, with a high near 73 degrees. Winds will be light, shifting from the northeast to the southeast during the afternoon. Friday night will be clear and cool, with a low around 44 degrees.
The weekend forecast looks especially favorable for outdoor activities, including fall festivals and community events across northwest Georgia. Saturday will be sunny with a high near 72 degrees, followed by clear skies and an overnight low around 42. Sunday will bring more sunshine, with a high near 71 and another cool night with temperatures dropping to around 42 degrees.
Monday will be sunny with a high near 72 degrees and a nighttime low around 44. Tuesday and Wednesday will see temperatures climbing back into the middle 70s, with highs around 74 degrees both days.
One concern with the extended forecast is the continued lack of rainfall. No rain is currently forecast through Wednesday. While the dry weather will provide favorable conditions for outdoor activities, it will also allow vegetation and other outdoor fuels to remain dry, potentially prolonging elevated fire danger.
Overall, afternoon highs will generally remain in the lower to middle 70s, with overnight lows in the 40s.
Residents are encouraged to remain mindful of fire safety as the extended period of dry weather continues.
Summerville Christmas Parade Registration Opens November 1
The holiday season is just around the corner, and preparations are already underway for the 2026 Summerville Christmas Parade.
Registration for floats and other parade entries will begin November 1 and continue through December 1.
This year’s parade theme is “A Hard Candy Christmas,” and participants are invited to celebrate the season with creative, holiday-themed entries.
The Christmas Parade will be held Monday, December 7, beginning at 7 PM. Trophies and prizes will be awarded to the top three floats.
Registration for the parade is available online at www.summervillega.org.
Organizers encourage businesses, churches, organizations, families and other groups interested in participating to begin planning their entries.
The annual Christmas parade is a longstanding holiday tradition in Summerville, bringing residents together to celebrate the Christmas season.
Summerville Harvest Festival Set For November 7 At Dowdy Park
The Summerville Harvest Festival is coming up next month, offering vendors and the community another opportunity to come together and enjoy a festive fall celebration at Dowdy Park.
The festival will take place Saturday, November 7, from 9 AM until 5 PM at Dowdy Park in Summerville. Admission to the festival will be free to the public.
Organizers are inviting local vendors to participate in the event, which will feature a variety of booths and opportunities for visitors to shop and enjoy the fall season.
Vendors who registered for this year’s Sun Melly Festival will also have the opportunity to participate in the Summerville Harvest Festival at no additional cost.
Anyone who was not registered for the Sun Melly Festival but would like to become a vendor for the Harvest Festival can find registration information at www.summervillega.org.
The event is part of Summerville’s fall activities and will provide another opportunity for residents and visitors to support local vendors and enjoy a day at Dowdy Park.
Traffic Stop On White Oak Road Leads To Firearm And Suspended License Charges
A 37-year-old man was arrested by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office following a traffic stop on White Oak Road that led to the discovery of a handgun and information about the driver’s criminal history.
According to the Sheriff’s Office report, Sergeant Corey Fielding was dispatched to the 150 block of White Oak Road around 2:45 PM on Thursday, October 15, 2026, after a complaint about a man walking around taking pictures of a house.
While traveling to the area, Sergeant Fielding encountered a black Nissan SUV driven by a man matching the description provided by the caller. The vehicle made a U-turn at the intersection of Marble Springs Road and Georgia Highway 1, then immediately turned into a private driveway. Fielding reported that he activated his emergency lights and stopped the vehicle.
The driver, identified as 37-year-old Robert Devon Russell, provided a Georgia identification card and told the sergeant that his license was no good.
Russell explained that he had been taking pictures of a residence at 147 White Oak Road and was a surveyor.
A search incident to arrest led to the discovery of a silver and black 9mm Smith & Wesson pistol. A check through the Georgia Crime Information Center showed that the handgun had been reported as a lost weapon out of Fulton County.
The report states that a criminal history check revealed Russell had several violent felony convictions in Florida for armed robbery and was also on felony probation.
Russell was arrested on charges of driving with a suspended license and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Deadline To Apply For Chattooga Head Start Teaching Position Is Tomorrow
The deadline to apply for an Early Head Start teacher position at Chattooga Head Start is tomorrow, Friday, October 23.
The position is available immediately through the Family Resource Agency of North Georgia and involves working with infants and toddlers in a classroom setting.
Responsibilities include conducting home visits, planning and implementing classroom activities, and maintaining records.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED along with TCC or CDA credentials. An associate degree in early childhood education is preferred.
The position pays $16.99 per hour and offers a 40-hour workweek, Monday through Friday, with no weekend work.
Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, retirement benefits, paid annual and sick leave, paid holidays and wellness reimbursements.
Interested applicants can contact Center Manager Candice Mickler at 706-857-1651 or email cmickler@myfraga.org for additional information.
The deadline to apply is tomorrow, Friday, October 23, 2026.
AdventHealth Redmond Hosts Regional Cardiovascular Symposium In Rome
AdventHealth Redmond recently brought together healthcare professionals from across Northwest Georgia for the 2026 Northwest Georgia Cardiovascular Symposium, an event focused on improving heart and vascular care throughout the region.
The annual symposium provided physicians, clinicians and healthcare leaders with an opportunity to discuss advances in cardiovascular medicine, share research and explore new technologies designed to improve patient care.
AdventHealth physicians and clinical leaders presented information on several important areas of heart health, including atrial fibrillation, advanced cardiac imaging, cardiac rehabilitation, heart failure treatment, stroke care and coronary artery disease.
Presenters also discussed new approaches to diagnosing and treating cardiovascular conditions, along with ways healthcare providers can work together to improve patient outcomes.
The symposium emphasized the importance of collaboration among medical professionals throughout Northwest Georgia, particularly as healthcare providers continue to address the needs of patients with heart and vascular disease.
AdventHealth Redmond officials say the annual event helps strengthen relationships among regional healthcare professionals while providing opportunities to learn about the latest developments in cardiovascular treatment.
The Rome hospital continues to focus on expanding cardiovascular services, incorporating advanced medical technology and supporting collaboration among physicians and other healthcare professionals.
Northwest Georgia Center For Independent Living Announces Fall Classes
The Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living (NWGACIL) has announced its fall 2026 class schedule, offering a variety of educational programs designed to help individuals develop practical life skills, improve independence and explore new opportunities.
The classes cover topics ranging from nutrition and employment readiness to technology, financial management, emergency preparedness and communication skills.
Among the scheduled programs is a Nutrition and Wellness class held on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 3:30 PM in the Community Room at 807 Avenue B in Rome. Participants will learn about preparing healthy meals while staying within a budget.
A Job Club and Employability class meets on the fourth Thursday of each month at 3 PM at the Goodwill Career Center, located at 154 Hicks Drive in Rome. The program focuses on self-advocacy, workplace readiness and exploring employment opportunities. The November session is scheduled for November 19, and no class will be held in December.
The organization also offers Tech Tuesday on the third Tuesday of each month from 3:30 to 4:30 PM. The program explores assistive technology and is available both in person and through Zoom.
Additional classes include chair yoga, goal setting, money management, household responsibilities, transportation skills, time management and emergency preparedness.
Specialized instruction is also available in Braille, American Sign Language and JAWS screen-reading software. Other programs include information about Individualized Education Programs for students and hands-on training with Meta smart glasses.
Many classes are offered on demand or by appointment, with both in-person and virtual participation options.
Residents of Chattooga County and surrounding Northwest Georgia communities interested in learning more about the programs can contact the Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living at 706-314-0008 or email info@nwgacil.org.
The organization’s office is located at 527 Broad Street, Suite 101, in Rome.