Most Chattooga County Boat Owners Will Not Receive A 2026 Tax Bill
Most boat owners in Chattooga County will not receive a tax bill in 2026 following a change in state law that increased the exemption on boat accounts.
Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton said she has received several questions about boat values for 2026 and reviewed billing information to get a better idea of how many taxpayers may be affected.
According to Hampton, there are currently 823 boat accounts in Chattooga County, but only 44 are expected to receive a tax bill.
The reason is a recent change in the law that increased the exemption on boat accounts from $7,500 to $20,000.
That means boats valued at $20,000 or less should not generate a tax bill. Owners of boats valued at more than $20,000 may receive a bill based on the taxable value listed on the account.
Hampton noted that she cannot answer questions about how individual boat values are determined, but she explained the process taxpayers can use to review their information.
Each January, after the Georgia Department of Natural Resources provides boat ownership information to the Chattooga County Assessor’s Office, the Assessor’s Office sends paperwork to taxpayers. That is the time for property owners to report or review values for boats, jet skis, airplanes and other personal property.
Taxpayers who did not return the form and disagree with the value listed on their account are encouraged to visit the Chattooga County Assessor’s Office. Staff there can help complete the appropriate paperwork and review the account information.
Hampton said the main takeaway is that, because the exemption has increased to $20,000, the vast majority of boat accounts in Chattooga County will not generate a tax bill in 2026.
Summerville Man Charged With Public Indecency At Rome Movie Theater
A Summerville man is accused of exposing himself in the parking lot of Movies at Berry Square in Rome.
According to an arrest warrant, an employee of the movie theater was sitting in her vehicle when she noticed another vehicle, allegedly driven by 48-year-old Gary Lee Gilbert of Summerville, repeatedly driving around the parking lot.
The employee reportedly thought the behavior was unusual and began recording what was happening with her cell phone.
According to the warrant, Gilbert eventually parked and got out of his vehicle. Authorities allege that he was wearing a dress, bra and thong and subsequently removed the bra and thong.
The warrant states that Gilbert then sat down and his dress rode up, allegedly exposing his private parts while he was in the parking lot.
Gilbert was charged with misdemeanor public indecency.
The charge is an allegation, and Gilbert is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Berry College Announces Fall Senior Scholars Program For Adults 55 And Older
Adults age 55 and older will have an opportunity to continue learning, explore new interests and connect with others through the Fall 2026 Senior Scholars program at Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum.
The continuing education program, established in 1994, offers a variety of courses, lectures and special tours led by Berry College faculty and local experts.
This fall’s semester will feature more than 30 offerings covering history, literature, technology, the arts, wellness and local culture.
Participants will be able to explore topics ranging from the Declaration of Independence and the global response to the Holocaust to ballroom dancing, pickleball, mindfulness, creative writing and digital design using Canva.
Senior Scholars is designed to provide lifelong learning opportunities while also encouraging personal enrichment and community connections among participants.
The program is offered through Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum and Berry College.
Those interested in participating can contact Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum or visit its website for additional information about Fall 2026 courses, registration and scheduling.
Woman Arrested After Allegedly Stripping Down At Summerville News Office
A 37-year-old woman was arrested after authorities say she stripped down to her underwear and a sports bra inside The Summerville News office and then refused repeated requests from employees to leave.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy was dispatched to 20 Wildlife Lake Road on August 5 regarding a woman who had gone inside the business and would not leave.
The woman was identified as Emily Alysee Broome.
According to the Sheriff’s Office report, an employee told the deputy that Broome had been engaging in similar behavior around the city that morning.
The employee told authorities that Broome entered the lobby of The Summerville News and stripped down to her underwear and sports bra. Employees then reportedly asked Broome several times to leave the business, but she allegedly refused.
The report states that when the deputy arrived, Broome was wearing a black hoodie and appeared not to be wearing pants.
Broome reportedly told the deputy that she had been allowed to pick up free newspapers and claimed she had permission to be at the business.
Employees told the deputy that they wanted Broome criminally trespassed from the property.
According to the report, the deputy then placed Broome under arrest and transported her to the Chattooga County Jail, where she was turned over to jail staff without further incident.
The deputy then completed the criminal trespass paperwork for the business.
Broome was charged with disorderly conduct, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office incident report.
Walker County Commissioners Set Special Work Session On FY2027 Budget, Millage Rate
The Walker County Board of Commissioners will hold a special called work session next week to continue discussions surrounding the county’s upcoming budget and millage rate.
The work session is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, at 1 p.m. in the conference room of the Walker County Administration Building, Courthouse Annex I, located at 101 S. Duke Street in LaFayette.
According to the meeting agenda, commissioners will focus on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and millage rate.
The agenda calls for Chairwoman Teems to open the meeting, followed by attendance and discussion of the FY2027 budget and millage rate. The meeting will adjourn following that discussion.
The special called work session is open to the public.
Walker County says anyone requiring assistance to participate in the meeting due to a disability should contact the County Clerk prior to the meeting.
The meeting comes as county commissioners continue working through financial decisions that will determine spending priorities and the property tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year.
Chattooga County Schools To Release Students Early August 27-28 For Fair Traffic
All Chattooga County Schools will dismiss students early on Thursday, August 27, and Friday, August 28, as preparations get underway for events surrounding the Chattooga County Fair.
Students across the school system will be released at 1:30 p.m. on both days. The adjusted schedule is intended to help clear traffic from the area around Summerville Middle School ahead of fair activities.
School officials say lunch will be served as usual before students are dismissed.
All scheduled after-school activities and programs will continue as planned, despite the early dismissal.
Parents and guardians who have questions about the schedule or need additional information should contact their child’s school.
The early release schedule applies to all Chattooga County Schools on Thursday, August 27, and Friday, August 28.
Free Dog Vaccinations Available Today During Dog Daze In Downtown Summerville
Dog owners can get several important vaccinations for their pets at no cost today during Dog Daze in Downtown Summerville.
The event is being held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. today, Saturday, August 15, at the Summerville Depot and along East Washington Street.
Free rabies, DHPP and Bordetella vaccines will be available for dogs during the event. The vaccinations are sponsored by HSNEGA in partnership with the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.
Dogs must be over six months old and friendly with other dogs and people.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter will also be on hand with adoptable dogs looking for forever homes.
Dog Daze will feature a full day of activities, including the Pup Strut Pet Parade at noon, a dog-and-owner look-alike contest, a dog photo booth, kiddie pool cooling station, pup cups, grooming, vendors, food and shopping.
A steam train is also expected to arrive in downtown Summerville at approximately 1 p.m.
Organizers are encouraging local dog owners whose pets need vaccinations to take advantage of the free clinic while they are available.
Dog Daze continues until 3 p.m. today in Downtown Summerville.
Motorcyclist Arrested After Alleged High-Speed Attempt To Elude Chattooga County Deputy
A 49-year-old man was arrested after a Chattooga County deputy reported that a motorcyclist attempted to elude him during a traffic stop on Highway 48.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, the deputy was parked at the Highway 48 Food Mart near James Street shortly after 1 p.m. on August 4 when he heard a motorcycle approaching.
The deputy reported checking the motorcycle with his in-car radar and clocking it at 74 mph in a posted 55 mph zone. He then pulled onto Highway 48 in an attempt to conduct a traffic stop.
According to the report, the motorcycle operator looked back toward the deputy and then accelerated. The deputy caught up with the motorcycle near Indian Trail and activated his emergency lights and siren.
The report states that the motorcycle failed to stop and that speeds during the pursuit ranged between 83 and 94 mph.
The deputy said he was able to obtain the motorcycle’s Georgia tag number during the pursuit. The report states that a black Mercedes SUV ahead of the motorcycle pulled onto the shoulder, and the motorcycle then passed the SUV in a no-passing zone near Fish Hatchery Road.
According to the report, the deputy moved closer to the motorcycle because of what he described as erratic driving. The motorcyclist then allegedly braked hard and veered off the roadway in a dangerous curve.
The deputy stopped and approached the rider, who complied when ordered to get off the motorcycle. The rider was then placed under arrest.
The rider was identified as Thomas Ray Bray.
According to the report, Bray allegedly told the deputy that he was not running and that the SUV had been getting over for the deputy’s emergency lights and siren.
Bray was transported to the Chattooga County Jail without further incident, while a towing service took possession of the motorcycle.
Bray was charged with fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, reckless driving and speeding, according to the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office report.
Concerned Citizens To Distribute Free Tax Appeal Forms Saturday In Downtown Summerville
A group of concerned citizens plans to be in Downtown Summerville on Saturday, August 15, handing out free tax appeal forms to residents who may not be able to obtain one during regular weekday office hours.
The group says it plans to set up in front of the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office beginning around 8 to 8:30 a.m. and remain there until at least 1 p.m., depending on the heat.
Organizers say motorists will be able to slow down and receive a form through their vehicle window or pull over and park. They are asking everyone to use caution so the distribution does not create a traffic or safety issue.
The group says residents can also obtain an appeal form directly from the tax office, where staff can print a form with identifying information already filled in. Taxpayers would then only need to enter the value they believe is appropriate, provide a reason for the appeal and sign the form.
Appeal forms can also be printed at home by those with internet and printer access.
Organizers say the purpose of Saturday’s distribution is to provide another option for residents who may not be able to visit the tax office during normal weekday business hours.
The group is also inviting others to join them Saturday to help hand out forms and potentially cover both sides of the street.
Arrest Report - Friday - August 14, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, August 14, 2026:
Heat Advisory In Effect As Dangerous Heat Builds Across Northwest Georgia
Dangerous heat and humidity will be the main weather concern across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia through the weekend, with heat index values climbing into the triple digits and little relief expected overnight.
A Heat Advisory is in effect from noon today through 8 p.m. Saturday, with heat index values potentially reaching 109 degrees across portions of north and central Georgia.
For Friday, skies will be mostly sunny with a high near 93 degrees, but the humidity will make it feel considerably hotter. Heat index values around 103 degrees are possible during the afternoon. There is also a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 p.m.
That heat will be an important consideration for anyone attending outdoor activities Friday afternoon and evening, including high school football scrimmages and other sporting events. Temperatures will remain warm into the evening, with an overnight low around 75.
Saturday could be even hotter. Sunshine will push the temperature to around 95 degrees, with heat index values near 104 locally. Across other portions of Georgia, heat indices could approach or exceed 110 degrees. An isolated afternoon thunderstorm is possible.
The National Weather Service says elevated overnight temperatures and humidity will provide little relief, particularly for people without access to air conditioning.
The heat continues Sunday and into the beginning of next week. Sunday is expected to be sunny and hot with a high near 97, followed by a high near 99 degrees Monday. Heat index values across north and central Georgia are expected to remain in the 100s through the weekend and into early next week.
Scattered afternoon thunderstorms will remain possible at times. While widespread severe weather is not expected, storms that develop could produce gusty winds and locally heavy rainfall.
Anyone spending extended periods outdoors should drink plenty of fluids, take frequent breaks and limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is recommended. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period of time.
Be alert for symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke and check on elderly relatives, neighbors and others who may be especially vulnerable to prolonged heat.
After Monday’s high near 99, temperatures are forecast to remain in the mid-90s through much of next week, with occasional chances for afternoon showers and thunderstorms.
Trion, Chattooga Meet Tonight In Annual Preseason Football Scrimmage
High school football returns to Chattooga County tonight as the Trion Bulldogs and Chattooga Indians square off in their 2026 preseason scrimmage.
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. tonight, Friday, August 14, at Chattooga High School in Summerville.
The annual preseason matchup gives both programs an opportunity to see their players in game conditions before the 2026 regular season gets underway. Coaches will have a chance to evaluate returning starters, younger players stepping into larger roles and newcomers competing for positions as both teams make their final preparations for games that count.
While the final score may not carry regular-season implications, the meeting between the county’s two high school football programs always brings plenty of local interest. For players and coaches, Friday night’s scrimmage provides a valuable measuring stick after weeks of summer workouts and preseason practices.
For fans, it’s the first opportunity of the fall to see the Bulldogs and Indians under the Friday night lights and get an early look at what both teams will bring to the field during the 2026 campaign.
Fans unable to attend the scrimmage can follow the action with WZQZ Radio. Coverage will be available on FM 99.1, with online coverage through the WZQZ Facebook page. Join Jeremy Burke, Paul Cavin, Bubba and Steiner, with Mason Gilreath working the camera for tonight’s football acton.
Kickoff between the Trion Bulldogs and Chattooga Indians is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Chattooga High School.
September 14 Deadline To Appeal Chattooga County Property Assessments: What Property Owners Need To Know
With 2026 property assessment notices arriving in mailboxes across Chattooga County, property owners are being reminded that September 14 is the deadline to appeal their assessment if they believe their property has been incorrectly valued.
For taxpayers seeing an increase this year, it is important to understand both the appeal process and another term that will become increasingly important as tax bills are calculated — the millage rate.
First, an assessment notice is not a property tax bill. The assessment establishes the value used as part of the property tax calculation. The final amount owed will also depend on exemptions and the millage rates levied by the applicable taxing authorities.
September 14 Is The Appeal Deadline
Property owners who disagree with their 2026 assessment have until September 14, 2026, to file an appeal.
Georgia law generally provides property owners 45 days from the mailing date of an annual assessment notice to appeal to the County Board of Tax Assessors.
An appeal can involve the property’s value, taxability, uniformity of assessment or denial of an exemption.
Property owners considering an appeal should not wait until the deadline approaches. Supporting information can include recent sales of comparable properties, photographs showing the property’s condition, an independent appraisal or other documentation that supports the owner’s opinion of the property’s fair market value.
The appeal is filed with the County Board of Tax Assessors, not with the Georgia Department of Revenue.
Georgia provides several avenues for property tax appeals, including the Board of Equalization, arbitration and, in qualifying cases, a hearing officer.
Regardless of which appeal method is selected, the key date for Chattooga County property owners this year is September 14.
What Does “Millage Rate” Mean?
The millage rate is the tax rate applied to a property’s taxable assessed value.
One mill represents $1 in property tax for every $1,000 of assessed value.
Georgia generally assesses property for tax purposes at 40 percent of its fair market value.
For example, consider a home with a fair market value of $200,000.
At 40 percent, the assessed value would generally be:
$200,000 × 40% = $80,000
If the hypothetical tax rate were 25 mills, the calculation before exemptions would be:
$80,000 ÷ 1,000 × 25 = $2,000
The resulting tax would be $2,000 before applicable exemptions or other adjustments.
A Higher Assessment Doesn’t Automatically Mean The Same Percentage Increase In Your Tax Bill
This is one of the most important distinctions for property owners.
If a home’s assessed value increases by 20 percent, that does not automatically mean the final property tax bill will increase by 20 percent.
The ultimate bill depends on the property’s taxable assessed value after exemptions and the millage rates ultimately levied by the taxing jurisdictions.
That is why taxpayers should distinguish between the property value appearing on an assessment notice and the tax rate that will later be applied to that value.
Who Determines Property Values And Who Sets The Tax Rate?
The two functions are separate.
The Board of Tax Assessors is responsible for property valuation and assessment. The Tax Assessor’s Office does not simply decide how much an individual property owner will ultimately pay in taxes.
Millage rates are established by the governments and taxing authorities that levy property taxes.
In Chattooga County’s sole-commissioner form of government, the county government’s millage decision is made by the Sole Commissioner. The Chattooga County Board of Education separately establishes the school system’s millage rate.
Municipal taxes, where applicable, are also separate.
What Is The Rollback Rate?
Property owners may also hear discussion of the rollback millage rate as local governments move through the annual budget and property tax process.
When reassessments increase the value of existing property on the tax digest, a rollback rate essentially shows the millage rate that would offset that inflationary increase in the digest.
In simple terms, if the same group of properties becomes more valuable on paper, a lower millage rate could potentially generate the same amount of tax revenue from those properties.
If a taxing authority does not roll its millage rate back sufficiently to offset reassessment-related growth, Georgia law can require additional public notices and hearings.
This is why an increase in the countywide tax digest does not, by itself, tell taxpayers exactly how much their individual tax bills will change.
Review Your Assessment Now
Chattooga County property owners should carefully review their 2026 assessment notices, paying particular attention to the fair market value, assessed value, exemptions and property information shown on the notice.
If something appears incorrect or an owner believes the valuation does not reflect the property’s fair market value, the assessment appeal process provides the opportunity to challenge it.
But that opportunity has a deadline.
For Chattooga County’s 2026 property assessments, appeals must be filed by September 14.
Property owners should follow the filing instructions included with their assessment notice and contact the appropriate local tax office if they have questions about the process.
For taxpayers trying to make sense of property taxes this year, remember these three points:
40 percent — the general assessment ratio used for Georgia property taxes.
One mill — $1 of tax for every $1,000 of taxable assessed value.
September 14 — the deadline to appeal a 2026 Chattooga County property assessment.
Three Charged In Alleged Forced Labor Scheme At Cartersville Flooring Manufacturer
Three men are facing federal charges following an investigation into an alleged forced labor operation at a flooring manufacturing company in Cartersville.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia says Zhu Chen, 60, and Jiayi Chen, 31, both of Cartersville, along with Jianjun Lu, 55, of China, have been indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit forced labor and forced labor.
Zhu Chen, identified by federal prosecutors as the owner of Cartersville-based Wellmade Industries, is also charged with alien harboring.
According to the allegations outlined by federal prosecutors, Zhu Chen, Jiayi Chen and Lu recruited Chinese nationals under false pretenses to enter the United States on B-1 and L-1 visas and work at the flooring manufacturing facility.
Prosecutors allege that after the workers arrived in the United States, they were required to work 12-hour shifts, six days a week, under unsafe factory conditions.
The defendants are also accused of paying the workers less than they had been promised and threatening them with deportation and substantial debts if they stopped working at the factory.
Federal authorities further allege that foreign workers were housed in overcrowded and dirty residences. Prosecutors say some individuals were housed in residences owned by Wellmade Industries despite the defendants allegedly knowing those individuals did not have legal status in the United States.
U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg said the allegations include threats of physical violence, deportation and debt used to compel workers to continue working lengthy shifts.
Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Steven N. Schrank said the indictment represents a step forward in seeking justice for the alleged victims and said federal investigators remain focused on identifying labor trafficking operations and protecting victims.
A federal grand jury returned the indictment against the three defendants. If convicted, they could face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leanne Marek and Jennifer Keen, along with Trial Attorney Elizabeth Hutson of the Justice Department Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, are prosecuting the case.
The charges are allegations only. Zhu Chen, Jiayi Chen and Jianjun Lu are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office Encourages Residents to Download Mobile App
The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging residents to download its official mobile app to stay connected with important information and services from the agency.
The MySheriff app gives users access to online services, notifications, saved events, crime tips and other information directly from their smartphones. The Sheriff’s Office says the app can also be used to receive up-to-date alerts about happenings around Chattooga County and provides access to the agency’s webpage.
According to information shared by the Sheriff’s Office, no registration is required to use the app.
The official Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office mobile app is available for both Apple and Android devices through the App Store and Google Play.
The Sheriff’s Office says the app is another way for residents to stay informed and have convenient access to information and services provided by the agency.
New To Running? Twisted Ankle Trail Race Welcomes Beginners At Sloppy Floyd State Park
Registration is underway now for the Twisted Ankle Trail Race at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park in Summerville, and organizers are making a special effort to welcome people who are new to trail running — or even new to running altogether.
The race is scheduled for Saturday, September 12, 2026, and this year marks the event’s 20th anniversary.
Participants can choose from a 5K, 10-mile race, half marathon, or a special 20-mile “Double the Fun” race being offered this year in celebration of two decades of Twisted Ankle.
Organizers say the event is a good fit for beginners because the course is well marked, volunteers are stationed along the route, and two aid stations are available to support runners during their race.
The Twisted Ankle team describes the trail-running community as supportive and laid back, while still providing a real challenge for experienced runners looking for a tough course or a scenic training day.
Those taking part will get a chance to run through one of Northwest Georgia’s most scenic state parks, with longer routes including challenging terrain around Becky’s Bluff, portions of the Pinhoti Trail, and other well-known areas inside Sloppy Floyd State Park.
Proceeds from the event benefit the park through the Friends of the Park organization.
Registration is underway now, and runners of all experience levels are encouraged to sign up.
Booth Museum Invites School Employees To Free ‘Mysteries At The Museum’ Educator Night
School employees from across Northwest Georgia are invited to put their detective skills to the test during a special Educator Night — Mysteries at the Museum at the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, September 10, from 5 until 8 p.m. and will combine food, fun and an art-inspired mystery as the museum celebrates area educators.
Admission is free for anyone working in a school district, and the offer is not limited to classroom teachers. The museum says the event is open to all school district employees, with a school ID required for free admission.
During the evening, participants can try to solve an art-inspired mystery while exploring the museum. All activities are optional, so guests can participate in the mystery or simply tour the museum at their own pace.
The evening will also feature themed food, adult beverages, swag bags and other freebies.
Educators and school employees may bring up to two guests, although guests will be charged the museum’s regular adult admission rate.
The event is limited to those 21 and older, and advance registration is required. The registration deadline is Monday, September 7.
Booth Western Art Museum is located at 501 Museum Drive in Cartersville. Those needing additional information can contact the museum at 770-387-1300.
School employees interested in attending can register through the museum’s official event page.
Driver’s Education Course Coming To Chattooga County; Scholarships Available
Young drivers in Chattooga County will have an opportunity this fall to complete a driver’s education course that meets the requirements of Georgia’s Joshua’s Law.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College will offer Driver’s Education at the Chattooga County Educational Center October 6-9, 2026. Classes will meet Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.
The course provides the training required under Joshua’s Law, including 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of drive time with a certified instructor for students seeking a Class D driver’s license.
Students who successfully complete the course may also qualify for the Teen Driver’s Education insurance discount offered by many insurance companies.
The cost of the course is $400 per person, but families should know that scholarships are available through the Georgia Driver’s Education Grant Scholarship program. Those interested in financial assistance are encouraged to apply for a scholarship before enrolling.
GNTC is also offering Driver’s Education courses at several of its other Northwest Georgia locations. September classes are planned at the Catoosa County Campus, followed by the Chattooga County course in October. Additional classes are scheduled in Floyd, Catoosa, Whitfield-Murray and Walker counties through the spring of 2027.
For registration information, contact GNTC’s Office of Economic Development at 706-516-5442 or by email at DriversEd@gntc.edu.
The Chattooga County class is scheduled for October 6, 7, 8 and 9, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at the Chattooga County Educational Center.
Paint & Pop And Bat Hike Planned Saturday At Sloppy Floyd State Park
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park in Summerville has two special programs planned tomorrow, Saturday, August 15, offering visitors opportunities to enjoy the park during both the day and after dark.
The park will begin the day with Paint & Pop, an art program and contest centered around the beautiful landscapes found at Sloppy Floyd State Park.
Two Paint & Pop sessions are scheduled, one at 9:30 a.m. and another at 2:30 p.m. The program is free for all ages, although a $10 park pass is required, and participants must register in advance. Art supplies will be provided, and each person may create one entry.
Everyone is welcome to participate in the painting program, but the contest portion is specifically for students in 9th through 12th grades. Those students will have an opportunity to submit their paintings for consideration to be displayed at the Georgia State Capitol. The Georgia State Parks event calendar confirms both Saturday Paint & Pop sessions.
Then, after the sun goes down, park rangers will lead visitors “Into the Dark” for a Bat Hike beginning at 8:30 p.m.
Participants will hike with rangers to the Marble Mine while learning about local bats, including what they eat and how they have adapted to life after dark. The Marble Mine Trail leads to one of the park’s best-known scenic features and connects farther along with the Pinhoti Trail.
The Bat Hike costs $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is also required. Participants should bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes and meet in front of the park office by 8:30 p.m. The state park’s official event calendar also lists the Bat Night Hike for Saturday evening.
Registration is required for the programs. For registration or additional information, call the park office at 706-857-0826.
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park is located at 2800 Sloppy Floyd Lake Road in Summerville.
With painting during the day and a ranger-led adventure after dark, Saturday offers two very different ways for families and visitors to experience one of Chattooga County’s most popular outdoor destinations.
VA Mailing Millions Of ‘Choose VA’ Postcards To Veterans Beginning Today
Veterans who receive a “Choose VA” postcard in the mail over the next several weeks should not throw it away.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs says it is beginning an official nationwide mailing Thursday, August 13, targeting approximately 3.8 million veterans who are not currently enrolled in VA health care. The postcards will be mailed through September 11.
The VA says the postcards are legitimate government communications designed to help veterans learn whether they are eligible for VA health care and explain how they can enroll.
The agency is emphasizing the legitimacy of the new postcards because veterans have previously been warned about fraudulent mailings.
In particular, the VA recently issued a fraud alert concerning postcards promoting a so-called “Veterans Savings Program.” Those postcards were not sent by the VA and should be discarded. The new Choose VA postcards, however, are official communications from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Veterans receiving a postcard should still use caution when following links or scanning QR codes. The VA recommends checking that links lead to an official VA.gov address.
Veterans interested in enrolling in VA health care can apply online through VA.gov, call the VA Health Enrollment Center at 877-222-8387, or apply in person at a VA location.
Anyone who receives a suspicious communication claiming to be associated with veterans’ benefits can report concerns through the VA’s VSAFE program.
The key message from the VA is simple: If a Choose VA postcard arrives in your mailbox, don’t automatically assume it’s a scam and throw it away. The mailing which started yesterday, August 13 is legitimate and could help eligible veterans connect with VA health care services.