Heat Continues Today; Storms and Heavy Rain Chances Increase Midweek
Northwest Georgia will experience another hot day today before showers and thunderstorms become more widespread later this week.
Today will be mostly sunny with a high near 94 degrees. Heat index values could reach 100 during the afternoon. Winds will be calm early before becoming southerly at around 5 mph. Tonight will be mostly cloudy with a low near 75.
A cold front approaching from the north will bring a return to more active weather on Wednesday. The day will be partly sunny with a high near 91 and heat index values again approaching 100. There is a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 p.m.
Rain and storm chances increase to 60 percent Wednesday night as the front settles into north Georgia. Some storms could produce heavy rainfall, frequent lightning and strong wind gusts. Localized flash flooding could become a concern where storms repeatedly move across the same areas.
Temperatures will become slightly cooler Thursday and Friday, with highs in the middle to upper 80s. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will remain possible both days.
Saturday currently has the highest chance of rain, with showers and thunderstorms likely and a 70 percent chance of precipitation. Highs will remain in the upper 80s before warming back to around 90 Sunday and the lower 90s by Monday.
Tropical Storm Bertha will continue moving slowly westward across the northern Gulf of Mexico. The storm is not expected to bring any direct impacts to Northwest Georgia, though increasing moisture and the approaching front will contribute to higher rain chances later this week.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - July 21, 2026
Tax Commissioner Hampton: Most Homeowners Should See Lower Property Taxes
Most Chattooga County homeowners should see lower property tax bills over the next two years as a result of state tax relief, local sales tax revenue and additional tax relief proposals, according to Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton.
Speaking recently, Hampton said several factors are expected to reduce property taxes for many homeowners, beginning with the return of Georgia’s Homeowner Tax Relief Grant (HTRG) in 2026. The state-funded grant will reduce the assessed value of qualifying homesteads by $18,000, the same amount offered in 2023 before the program was suspended in 2024 and 2025.
Based on last year’s millage rates, Hampton estimated the grant could save eligible homeowners about $300, although the actual savings will depend on the final millage rates adopted later this year.
Hampton also highlighted another source of tax relief through the county’s Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). She said approximately $1.5 million collected during a six-month period has been designated for property tax relief. That revenue will appear as a separate credit on tax bills while lowering the county’s millage rate for all property owners, not just those receiving homestead exemptions. City residents are also expected to see savings on their municipal property taxes from the same revenue source.
“The county portion is going to go down a good bit,” Hampton said, adding that even the school portion of property tax bills should decline once the state grant is applied. While final tax bills will depend on the millage rates approved later this year, she said she expects most homeowners to see a reduction.
Beginning next year, Hampton said property owners should see even greater benefits because the county will apply a full year of SPLOST collections—from July 1 through June 30—to the following year’s tax bills instead of only a six-month collection period.
In addition to the immediate tax relief, voters will be asked in November to consider proposed changes to county and school property tax exemptions for senior citizens. Hampton said the current exemptions date back to 1997 and 2007 and are tied to a maximum income limit of $20,000. The proposed changes would raise the income threshold, allowing more seniors to qualify while also revising the income calculation used to determine eligibility.
Hampton said the proposals are intended to provide meaningful tax relief to more residents while ensuring the exemptions better reflect today’s economic conditions.
Final property tax bills will be determined after local governments adopt their millage rates later this year.
Southern Church Homecomings: A Tradition That Brings Families Back Home
Across the South, few traditions are as deeply rooted as the annual church Homecoming. While the celebration is a highlight of many congregations today, its history stretches back more than a century and reflects the close ties between churches, families and rural communities.
Historians say church Homecomings became especially common in the late 1800s and early 1900s as people left small farming communities for jobs in cities and other states. Once a year, churches would invite former members, pastors and families to “come home” to the church where they were baptized, married, raised their children or worshipped for many years. The gatherings became both a spiritual celebration and a family reunion.
For many rural churches, Homecoming also served as an opportunity to remember the congregation’s history, honor longtime members and visit family cemeteries located beside the church. Special gospel singing, guest preachers, recognition of church milestones and the traditional “dinner on the grounds” became hallmarks of the occasion. In many communities, families still look forward to homemade fried chicken, vegetables, casseroles and desserts shared around long fellowship tables after the morning worship service.
Although Homecomings can be held at any time of the year, August and September have long been popular months throughout Georgia and the Southeast. The timing often follows the summer growing season and family vacations while allowing former residents to return home before the busy fall schedule begins. Many churches continue the tradition today with annual Homecoming services, revivals and gospel singings that attract visitors from across the region.
As another Homecoming season approaches, WZQZ Radio and the Chattooga Info website invite all area churches to submit their Homecoming services, revivals, gospel singings, Vacation Bible Schools, community meals and other church events for free publicity.
For more than 18 years, Mason Funeral Home in Summerville has proudly sponsored WZQZ’s free church announcements, helping congregations throughout Chattooga County and the surrounding area share their events with the community.
Church announcements are broadcast on WZQZ Radio and published on ChattoogaInfo.com at no charge. Any church in the area is welcome to participate by sending event information to WZQZ. You may call 706-857-WZQZ (9979) and leave a detailed message or you can email WZQZ at info@chattoogainfo.com .
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park to Host Sunset Paddle July 25
Outdoor enthusiasts are invited to experience James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park from the water during a Sunset Paddle on Saturday, July 25.
The ranger-led program begins at 8:30 p.m., with participants asked to meet at the park office by 8 p.m. before launching onto the park’s Lower Lake for an evening paddle as the sun sets.
Registration is required in advance. The cost is $20 per person, which includes kayak rental, or $10 per person for those bringing their own kayak. A $10 Georgia State Park pass is also required for entry.
Participants are encouraged to bring plenty of water and wear clothing that can get wet. The guided paddle offers an opportunity to enjoy the peaceful scenery of the lake while learning more about the park and its natural surroundings.
Space is limited, and advance registration is required. To register or for more information, call the James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park office at 706-857-0826.
AAA: Gas Prices Continue Climbing Across Northwest Georgia, Northeast Alabama
Motorists across Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama are continuing to see higher prices at the pump this week as rising crude oil costs and strong summer travel demand push gasoline prices upward.
According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Chattooga County is $3.69, while Floyd County drivers are paying an average of $3.73 per gallon. The average is $3.74 in Gordon County, and the Catoosa-Dade-Walker regional average, which includes Walker County, stands at $3.69.
Across the state line in Alabama, AAA reports average prices of $3.43 per gallon in both DeKalb County and Cherokee County.
Statewide, Georgia’s average price for regular gasoline is about $3.56 per gallon, while Alabama’s statewide average remains lower. Nationally, the average price has climbed to just under $4.00 per gallon as concerns over global oil supplies and continued heavy summer travel keep upward pressure on fuel prices.
AAA recommends motorists compare prices before filling up, take advantage of fuel rewards programs when available, maintain proper tire pressure, and avoid aggressive driving to improve fuel economy
Chattooga County Fair Unveils 2026 Attractions Lineup
The Chattooga County Agricultural Fair is gearing up for four days of family fun with carnival rides, live entertainment, educational exhibits and daily livestock shows when the fair returns August 27-30 at the Chattooga County Fairgrounds in Summerville.
This year’s midway will once again feature Peachtree Rides, an Atlanta-based carnival company that has been providing rides, games and concessions since 1972. Fairgoers can expect a variety of attractions for both children and thrill seekers, along with classic carnival games and food.
Entertainment will include multiple magic shows each day, with the magician also roaming the fairgrounds between performances to entertain visitors.
New for 2026 is The Amazing Bubble Factory, an interactive educational show that combines giant bubbles, magic tricks and audience participation. The family-friendly attraction gives children and adults an opportunity to learn about the science behind bubbles while enjoying hands-on demonstrations.
Visitors can also stop by the Farm Bureau Demonstration Room, where demonstrations will be offered throughout the fair covering cooking, gardening and a variety of other topics.
In addition to the featured attractions, the fair will include live music, vendors, agricultural exhibits, blue ribbon competitions and daily livestock shows celebrating the area’s farming heritage.
The Chattooga County Agricultural Fair will be held at 33 Middle School Road in Summerville. Additional information, schedules and entry details are available at www.chattoogafair.com.
Public Intoxication Citation Issued in Summerville
A Summerville man was cited for public drunkenness Thursday evening following an incident on Fourth Street, according to the Summerville Police Department.
The citation states that Eli Nate Middlebrooks, 26, of Summerville, was issued a citation for public drunk, a violation of Summerville City Ordinance 38-1-10.
According to the officer’s narrative, police responded to a report of a subject yelling in the roadway in the 275 block of Fourth Street. Upon arrival, the officer observed Middlebrooks in the roadway and issued the citation.
The incident occurred on Thursday, July 16.
Middlebrooks is scheduled to appear in Summerville Municipal Court on September 15, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Chattooga County Courthouse Annex.
Permanent Daylight Saving Time Bill Advances in Congress — What It Means for Georgia
Americans may be one step closer to ending the twice-a-year clock change.
The U.S. House of Representatives has approved the Sunshine Protection Act, legislation that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent nationwide. The bipartisan measure passed by a 308-117 vote and now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration. If approved there and signed by President Donald Trump, Americans in most states would no longer “spring forward” in March and “fall back” in November.
For Georgia, the proposal would mean clocks would remain on Daylight Saving Time year-round, giving residents more daylight during the evening hours throughout the winter. However, sunrise would come much later during the coldest months. In northwest Georgia, winter sunrises could occur after 8 a.m., meaning many students would head to school before daybreak.
Georgia is already prepared for the change. In 2021, Governor Brian Kemp signed legislation authorizing permanent Daylight Saving Time if Congress changes federal law. Current federal law allows states to stay on permanent Standard Time, but not permanent Daylight Saving Time, making congressional action necessary before Georgia’s law can take effect.
Supporters say ending the time change would eliminate sleep disruptions, reduce traffic accidents linked to lost sleep, and provide more evening daylight for outdoor recreation and businesses. Opponents argue that darker winter mornings could create safety concerns for school children and morning commuters, while some sleep experts continue to advocate for permanent Standard Time instead because it aligns more closely with the body’s natural circadian rhythm.
The bill still must clear the Senate before becoming law, and its prospects there remain uncertain after similar legislation stalled in previous sessions of Congress
Georgia Lottery Delivers Another Record Year for Education
The Georgia Lottery is celebrating another banner year, transferring a record $1.54 billion to Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship and Pre-K programs during fiscal year 2026.
Governor Brian Kemp announced the lottery’s latest contribution this week, marking the 11th consecutive year the Georgia Lottery has generated more than $1 billion for education. The fiscal year total exceeded the previous year’s contribution by nearly $70 million, bringing the total amount transferred to Georgia’s Lottery for Education Account to more than $31.3 billion since lottery sales began in 1993.
“Every dollar raised through the Georgia Lottery helps provide educational opportunities for students across our state,” Kemp said in announcing the results. Lottery proceeds fund Georgia’s nationally recognized HOPE Scholarship and Grant programs, as well as the state’s voluntary Pre-K Program, benefiting millions of Georgians over the past three decades.
Georgia Lottery President and CEO Gretchen Corbin credited players, retailers and partners across the state for another successful year. Fiscal year 2026 also featured the largest lottery prize ever won in Georgia—a $983 million Mega Millions jackpot sold in Newnan during November and claimed in January.
Since its creation by Georgia voters in 1992, the Georgia Lottery has helped provide educational opportunities for millions of students while continuing to support one of the nation’s most successful scholarship and Pre-K programs.
Georgia Highlands College Opens Applications for LPN/Paramedic Bridge to RN Program
Licensed Practical Nurses and licensed Paramedics looking to advance their careers can now apply for Georgia Highlands College’s LPN/Paramedic Bridge to Registered Nurse (RN) Program.
The Associate of Science in Nursing Bridge program allows qualified LPNs and Paramedics to build on their existing healthcare experience and complete the requirements to become a Registered Nurse in just three semesters, provided all prerequisite courses have been completed.
Georgia Highlands College is also hosting mandatory Nursing Information Sessions for applicants interested in the Bridge pathway and other nursing programs. During the one-hour session, prospective students will learn about admission requirements, prerequisite coursework, the ATI TEAS entrance exam, clinical experiences and the application process. The sessions also provide an opportunity to meet with Health Science Admissions Specialist Nathen Barriga and ask questions.
The next LPN/Paramedic Bridge to RN Information Session is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 20, at the Rome/Floyd Campus, located at 3175 Cedartown Highway in Rome. Registration is required in advance.
Applications for the Bridge program are currently being accepted. The program is designed specifically for working healthcare professionals seeking expanded responsibilities and additional career opportunities through RN licensure.
For additional information or to register for an information session, visit events.highlands.edu.
Hot And Humid Weather Continues This Week
Hot and humid summer weather will continue across Chattooga County and the rest of northwest Georgia through much of the upcoming week, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the lower 90s and heat index values reaching around 100 to 101 degrees. Residents spending time outdoors should take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Today will be mostly sunny with only a slight chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms developing after 2 p.m. Any storms that do form will be isolated but could bring brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds before ending this evening.
Tuesday looks very similar, with mostly sunny skies, highs around 93 degrees, and another hot afternoon. Rain chances remain low through most of the day.
The weather pattern begins to change Wednesday as moisture increases across the region. While a few showers are possible early, the better chance for widespread showers and thunderstorms arrives during the afternoon and continues into Wednesday night. Rain chances climb to around 60 percent, making Wednesday the wettest day of the forecast period.
From Thursday through the weekend, expect a more typical summertime pattern. Each afternoon and evening will bring at least a chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms, while highs ease slightly into the upper 80s. No day appears to be a washout, but outdoor plans could be interrupted by passing storms, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
Overall, northwest Georgia can expect another week of summer heat, high humidity, and increasing opportunities for scattered thunderstorms as the week progresses.
Arrest Report - Monday - July 20, 2026
Trion High School Reminds Students of Locker and Parking Purchase Day
Trion High School is reminding students that locker and parking permit purchases will take place on Friday, July 24, at the back entrance of Trion High School.
Students must purchase lockers and parking permits during their assigned class time:
- Seniors: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
- Juniors: 9:30 to 11 a.m.
- Sophomores: 11 a.m. to noon
- Freshmen: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The cost is $25 for a locker and $30 for a parking permit.
School officials say students who have not completed and submitted their enrollment paperwork or tuition requirements will not be able to make purchases until those requirements have been met.
Because the enrollment deadline has passed and PowerSchool is temporarily offline for maintenance, parents needing to complete enrollment must fill out a paper enrollment form, which is available in the Trion High School office.
Students are also reminded to wait until their designated time slot before arriving to make purchases.
Local Travel Volleyball Program to Hold Evaluations July 25
Young volleyball players in Chattooga County will have an opportunity to compete at the next level as One County One Team Travel Volleyball prepares for its upcoming season.
The program will host open sign-ups and evaluations on Saturday, July 25, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the North Summerville Dewey Hopkins Gym.
The travel program is designed to expand competitive volleyball opportunities for local athletes and is inviting players ages 11 through 15 to participate. Organizers say the number of teams and age divisions will depend on turnout, making the evaluation an important step in forming teams for the season.
Players attending should bring knee pads and a drink. Evaluations will include movement drills, basic skills assessments and scrimmage-style play.
Team dues are $250, payable at the end of August. The fee covers two uniforms and helps provide equipment and other team needs throughout the season.
For additional information, families may contact Byrina Womack at byrinawomack5@gmail.com.
Family Crisis Center to Host Empowered to Protect Conference This September
The Family Crisis Center of Walker, Dade, Catoosa and Chattooga Counties will host its Empowered to Protect – Educate – Heal Conference 2026 on Tuesday, September 29, bringing nationally recognized speakers and victim advocates together for a full day of education and training.
The conference will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Catoosa County Colonnade.
Featured speakers include actress and advocate Robin Givens, child safety advocate Elizabeth Smart, criminal justice reform advocate Kemba Smith-Pradia, and Capt. Adam Meyers. Jay Neal, executive director of the Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, will appear as a special guest.
Organizers say the conference is designed for first responders, law enforcement officers, educators, healthcare professionals, victim advocates, community leaders and anyone interested in strengthening the response to domestic violence, child abuse, human trafficking and victim services.
Individual tickets are $175. Corporate tables for eight are available for $1,250, half tables for four are $625, and resource booths are available for $30. Those interested in corporate tables or resource booths should contact the Family Crisis Center at 706-375-8400.
A limited number of VIP meet-and-greet opportunities with Robin Givens and Elizabeth Smart are also available for an additional fee through Eventbrite.
New Georgia Law Requires Registration of AED Locations With Chattooga County 911
Businesses, schools, churches, government agencies and other organizations in Chattooga County that own an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) are now required to register the device’s location with Chattooga County EMA/E-911 under a new state law that took effect July 1.
The requirement is part of the Mason Sells AED Coordination Act (Senate Bill 399), which establishes a statewide system to help emergency dispatchers quickly identify the nearest publicly accessible AED during a cardiac emergency.
Chattooga County Emergency Management Director Pamela Vaughn said the county is currently working with its computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and mapping vendor to incorporate registered AED locations into the 911 system. Until that work is complete, dispatchers are manually entering each registered device under the medical information tab for its address. An audible alert will notify communications officers whenever a 911 call is received from a location with a registered AED, helping ensure first responders know a device is available.
Vaughn emphasized that residents should not call 911 to register an AED. Instead, owners should use the registration forms available through Chattooga County EMA/E-911 or visit the office at 170 Farrar Drive in Summerville for assistance with the registration process.
Under the new law, anyone who owns or maintains an AED must register its location with the local emergency communications center before placing the device into service. Owners are also required to notify 911 if the AED is moved, removed from service or relocated so records remain accurate.
The law also requires 911 communications officers to receive training in telephone-assisted CPR and guiding callers in the use of an AED during emergencies. It reinforces Georgia’s Good Samaritan protections for individuals who use an AED in good faith while responding to a medical emergency.
The legislation is named in memory of Mason Sells, a 20-year-old Mercer University student who died after suffering cardiac arrest during an intramural soccer match. Although an AED was reportedly nearby, bystanders and the 911 dispatcher were unable to quickly determine its location. State lawmakers unanimously approved Senate Bill 399, and Governor Brian Kemp signed it into law. The act became effective July 1, 2026.
Anyone with questions about registering an AED in Chattooga County should contact Chattooga County EMA/E-911.
AdventHealth Redmond to Host Community Blood Drive Thursday
AdventHealth Redmond will host a community blood drive on Thursday, July 23, giving area residents an opportunity to help patients in need.
The blood drive will be held from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at AdventHealth Redmond in Rome.
Hospital representatives say donated blood can provide hope and support for patients and families facing medical emergencies, surgeries and other serious health needs. Every eligible donor has the potential to make a meaningful difference for someone receiving care.
Walk-ins will be welcome throughout the event, although donors may also reserve an appointment in advance through Blood Assurance’s online scheduling system.
Those planning to donate should bring a valid photo identification and are encouraged to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before arriving.
AdventHealth Redmond is encouraging community members who are able to donate to take part in the drive and help maintain the regional blood supply.
Appointments may be scheduled through the Blood Assurance website.
Former Bartow County Sheriff's Deputy Charged Following Child Abuse Investigation
A former Bartow County Sheriff’s deputy has been arrested following a Georgia Bureau of Investigation inquiry into allegations of child abuse.
The GBI announced that Andrew Sean Williams, 31, of Taylorsville, has been charged with one count of misdemeanor battery.
According to the GBI, the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office requested the agency investigate the case on July 10 after receiving allegations of physical abuse involving a child.
Investigators say the child was found walking along a street by law enforcement officers and was taken to the local Division of Family and Children Services office. Authorities later identified the child and the child’s parents.
During the investigation, agents determined there was evidence indicating the child had been struck multiple times by Williams, resulting in minor injuries.
Williams was arrested on July 15 and booked into the Bartow County Jail.
The GBI says the investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI Tip Line at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), submit information online through the GBI website, or use the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
Once the investigation is complete, the case will be turned over to the Cherokee Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
GNTC Accepting Applications for Fall Semester Through August 4
Prospective students interested in beginning or continuing their education at Georgia Northwestern Technical College still have time to apply for the upcoming fall semester, but the admissions deadline is approaching.
GNTC has announced that applications for fall admission must be submitted by Tuesday, August 4. The college is encouraging students not to wait until the deadline to begin the admissions process.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College offers more than 200 degree, diploma and technical certificate programs designed to prepare students for employment or advancement in their chosen careers. Areas of study include aviation and industrial technologies, business and cybersecurity, healthcare and nursing, and public service fields.
Students receive hands-on instruction intended to build the practical skills employers are seeking. GNTC reports a 100 percent placement rate and offers career services to help students prepare for the workforce.
The college operates six campuses across Northwest Georgia in Catoosa, Floyd, Gordon, Polk, Walker and Whitfield-Murray counties, giving students several options for attending classes closer to home.
Financial aid options may be available for eligible students. Applicants must complete the online application, pay a $25 nonrefundable application fee and submit a high school or GED transcript. Newly accepted students must also register for orientation.
Students may apply online through GNTC’s admissions page. Additional assistance is available by calling the college’s admissions office at 1-866-983-4682