From The Farm To The Classroom: The History Of Agricultural Education In Chattooga County
When Chattooga County students bring their hogs into the show ring this evening, they will be continuing a tradition of agricultural education that stretches back more than a century.
Long before Future Farmers of America chapters, 4-H livestock projects, and organized agricultural classes became familiar parts of school life, farming was central to Chattooga County’s economy. Young people learned much of what they knew about agriculture by working alongside their parents and grandparents, tending crops, caring for livestock, and helping operate family farms.
During the nineteenth century, cotton dominated much of the county’s agricultural economy. By the early 1900s, however, farmers were being encouraged to diversify. Peach orchards became a major industry, particularly around Menlo and Summerville. According to research preserved by the Chattooga County Historical Society, Menlo shipped between 500 and 700 railroad cars of peaches in 1906, while Summerville shipped another 350.
As farming methods changed, so did the ways young people learned about agriculture.
One of the earliest organized efforts came through the Boys’ Corn Clubs and Girls’ Tomato and Canning Clubs, which helped lay the foundation for the modern 4-H program.
Georgia’s first Boys’ Corn Club was organized in Newton County in 1904, while girls’ tomato and canning clubs began in Hancock County in 1906. These programs encouraged young people to learn improved farming, gardening, and food preservation methods through hands-on projects and competitions.
According to the Chattooga County Historical Society, Chattooga County organized its own Corn Club in 1910. A surviving photograph from around that time shows members of the Chattooga Boys Corn Club, providing a glimpse into one of the county’s earliest organized agricultural education programs.
These early clubs helped establish a tradition of learning by doing that would become central to agricultural education for generations.
A major turning point came in 1917 with passage of the Smith-Hughes Act, federal legislation named for two Georgians, Senator Hoke Smith and Congressman Dudley Hughes. The law provided support for vocational agriculture instruction in public schools, helping establish the classroom and hands-on training system that would become familiar to generations of students.
Future Farmers of America was established nationally in 1928, followed by the Georgia FFA Association in 1929. The organization combined agricultural instruction with leadership training, public speaking, competitions, and supervised farming projects.
By the middle of the twentieth century, vocational agriculture students across Georgia were learning about livestock production, crop management, farm machinery, soil conservation, and the business of farming.
A Georgia Department of Education publication from 1953 described a statewide FFA pig-chain program that began in 1944. Students received young breeding hogs and returned offspring from their first litters so other students could participate. The program demonstrated how agricultural education could provide practical experience while helping young people begin building their own farming operations.
Agricultural education also faced changing circumstances in Chattooga County.
As textile manufacturing and other industries became increasingly important to the local economy, fewer residents depended primarily on farming for their livelihoods. The question of agriculture’s place in public education was significant enough that a November 2, 1960, edition of The Summerville News carried an article titled “Does Chattooga Need Agricultural Education?”
By 1960, manufacturing employed a much larger share of the county’s workforce than farming. Nevertheless, agricultural education remained relevant not only to those planning to become farmers, but also to students interested in machinery, animal science, business management, and other practical skills.
Another important chapter came with the development of Young Farmer education. Georgia began its Young Farmer instructional program in 1951, providing continuing agricultural education for people already engaged in farming. The Georgia Young Farmers Association was organized in 1971.
Chattooga County’s Young Farmers program has its own longstanding history, dating to around 1970, and has become an important supporter of agricultural education and community activities.
The program continues to receive recognition. Earlier this year, Chattooga County Young Farmers was named the Georgia Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association’s Outstanding Post-Secondary Program.
Meanwhile, agricultural education has expanded far beyond traditional farming.
Through the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service, Chattooga County 4-H has introduced students to subjects ranging from plant science and food production to agricultural technology and leadership development. One local agriculture-awareness initiative reached hundreds of students and helped Lyerly Elementary School earn the Governor’s Agriculture Awareness Award.
Today, FFA, 4-H, and Young Farmers programs continue connecting classroom instruction with practical experience.
One of the clearest examples is the annual Chattooga County Pig Project. Participating students receive hogs during the summer and spend months feeding, caring for, and preparing their animals for exhibition and sale.
The program teaches responsibility, animal husbandry, financial management, and the relationship between agricultural production and the marketplace.
That work will be on display this evening when the Chattooga County FFA and 4-H Pig Show and Auction takes place at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center in Summerville, beginning at 7 PM.
The event is coordinated with support from the Chattooga County Young Farmers Association and provides an opportunity for the public to support local students by purchasing the hogs they have raised.
For generations, agricultural education has helped Chattooga County young people develop skills that reach beyond the farm.
And while the equipment, technology, and agricultural economy have changed dramatically since the days when cotton and peach orchards dominated the local landscape, the principle remains much the same: some of life’s most valuable lessons are learned by doing.
Sources
-
Chattooga County Historical Society — A Century of Chattooga County Fairs — Chattooga County Corn Club established in 1910 and its connection to the county fair.
-
Chattooga County Historical Society — Photo Archive — photograph of the Chattooga Boys Corn Club, circa 1910.
-
University of Georgia Cooperative Extension — Historical Timeline — origins of Georgia’s Boys’ Corn Clubs and Girls’ Tomato and Canning Clubs.
-
Georgia Department of Education — 1910 Annual Report — early agricultural demonstration clubs and their educational purposes.
-
Georgia FFA — Young Farmer Program — development of Young Farmer education.
-
UGA Cooperative Extension — Chattooga County 4-H — current local youth agricultural education.
-
Chattooga County Agricultural Fair — Livestock Programs — details of the 2026 Pig Project and November 9 show and auction.
Driver's License Offices In Rock Spring, Rome And Calhoun To Close Wednesday For Veterans Day
Residents planning to visit a Georgia Department of Driver Services office this week should be aware that driver’s license offices in Rock Spring, Rome and Calhoun will be closed Wednesday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day.
The Georgia Department of Driver Services has confirmed that all Customer Service Centers statewide will be closed Wednesday for the holiday. The department’s headquarters and telephone contact center will also be closed.
The closure affects three locations commonly used by residents of Chattooga County and surrounding communities:
The Rock Spring Customer Service Center is located at 156 Pin Oak Drive in Walker County.
The Rome Customer Service Center is located at 3390 Martha Berry Highway NE in Floyd County.
The Calhoun Customer Service Center is located at 242 Public Safety Drive SE in Gordon County.
Motorists who need to renew a driver’s license, obtain an identification card, take a driving examination or conduct other business requiring an in-person visit should plan around Wednesday’s closure.
Although the offices will be closed for Veterans Day, the department offers a variety of online services through its website and the DDS 2 GO mobile application. Eligible customers can use those services for certain license renewals and other transactions without visiting a Customer Service Center.
Residents should also remember that the Rock Spring office is normally closed on Mondays, while operating Tuesday through Friday. Individual office schedules vary, and customers are encouraged to check the hours of their preferred location before traveling.
The department’s statewide holiday schedule and information about individual Customer Service Centers are available at dds.georgia.gov.
North Georgia EMC Reminds Farmers To Submit Agricultural Tax Exemption Cards By December 31
North Georgia Electric Membership Corporation is reminding farmers and homesteaders who qualify for Georgia’s Agricultural Tax Exemption program to make sure their updated GATE cards are submitted to the electric cooperative before the end of the year.
In an announcement issued November 2, NGEMC said members with electric accounts eligible for the Georgia Agricultural Tax Exemption should provide their current GATE card information by December 31 to maintain tax-exempt status on applicable accounts.
The GATE program, administered by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, allows qualifying agricultural producers to receive exemptions from certain state and local sales taxes on eligible agricultural purchases and expenses.
The exemption can apply to qualifying electricity used in agricultural production, making it important for farmers and agricultural businesses to keep their information current with their electric provider.
According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture, farmers whose GATE certificates expire December 31, 2026, can now renew for the 2027 through 2029 certification period.
However, agricultural producers whose existing certificates expire in 2027 or later do not need to renew their certificates this year. The department reports that updated plastic cards for those participants were mailed in October.
NGEMC is asking members to submit their current GATE card through a form available on the cooperative’s website. Members should also identify all electric accounts covered by the agricultural exemption to ensure the appropriate accounts are included.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture advises applicants to check the expiration date printed on their existing certificates before beginning the renewal process.
The department’s online application and renewal system for the 2027 through 2029 period is now open. Farmers whose certificates have already expired must apply for a new certificate rather than renew an expired one.
For farmers and homesteaders in Chattooga County and other communities served by North Georgia EMC, maintaining accurate GATE information can help prevent the loss of applicable sales tax exemptions on qualifying electric service.
Members can submit their cards and account information through NGEMC’s website at www.ngemc.com/send-in-your-gate-card/.
Additional information about eligibility, applications, and renewals is available through the Georgia Department of Agriculture at agr.georgia.gov. Farmers needing assistance can contact the GATE Customer Service Center at 855-327-6829.
NGEMC is encouraging eligible members to complete the necessary steps before the December 31 deadline.
Commissioner Allen Negotiating To Lower Costs Before Awarding Tooga Theatre Renovation Bid
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen says negotiations are underway with one of the low bidders for the Tooga Theatre renovation project as he works to reduce construction costs before awarding a contract.
Allen told WZQZ News over the weekend that he is negotiating with one of the contractors who submitted a low bid for the project, hoping to bring the cost down further before making a final decision.
The latest development follows the opening of four bids for the theatre’s interior renovation project. The county initially sought bids from local contractors but received no responses. The project was then advertised statewide, with additional time provided for contractors to submit proposals.
The Appalachian Regional Commission has committed $1 million toward the theatre’s interior renovation, with Chattooga County required to provide a matching contribution of at least $200,000.
The county has owned the historic theatre on Commerce Street in downtown Summerville since 2015. The first phase of restoration, which included exterior improvements, was completed during the administration of former Commissioner Blake Elsberry.
The current phase will focus on renovating the building’s interior, an important step toward eventually reopening the historic downtown landmark for public use.
Allen has not yet announced which contractor will receive the project. His latest comments indicate that he is continuing to work toward securing the most favorable construction cost before awarding the bid.
Summerville City Council To Consider Water Rate Changes, Wildlife Sanctuary And Other Business Tonight
The Summerville City Council will meet this evening at 5 PM, with several items on the agenda, including a proposed update to the city’s water base rate, discussion of a wildlife sanctuary, and purchases for city departments.
One of the major items under new business will be consideration of an update to the city’s water base rate. Council members are scheduled to discuss the proposal and potentially take action.
The council will also discuss a proposed wildlife sanctuary. Arch Farrar is scheduled to address the subject during the mayor’s comments, with additional discussion and possible action listed under new business.
Other items include awarding bids for two city vehicles: a Ford F-250 crew cab four-wheel-drive truck for the Wastewater Treatment Plant and a Ford F-150 SuperCrew XL four-wheel-drive truck for the Recreation Department.
Council members will also consider approval of the city’s 2026 Christmas bonuses.
The consent agenda includes a $12,432.54 payment to Xylem for Godwin hoses and fittings, the purchase of a replacement metal maintenance building for the Water Treatment Plant, a sign permit for 10200 Commerce Street, and a final adjusting change order related to the city’s 2024 Community Development Block Grant.
City Manager Jason Winters is scheduled to present a financial report and provide an update on drainage issues.
The meeting will include opportunities for public comments.
Prepare Now For Possible Freezing Temperatures In Northwest Georgia
With colder weather moving into northwest Georgia, residents are encouraged to begin preparing for the possibility of freezing temperatures as another round of cold air approaches later this week.
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City says temperatures will fall into the 30s across portions of north Georgia Sunday and Monday mornings, with frost possible in some areas. Temperatures in the Summerville area are expected to remain just above freezing initially, but another surge of colder air could arrive toward the end of the week.
Forecasters say a developing weather pattern could bring colder Canadian air into the Southeast. While the exact temperatures remain uncertain, freezing conditions are possible in parts of northwest Georgia by next weekend.
Now is a good time for homeowners to take precautions before the first significant freeze of the season.
Outdoor water hoses should be disconnected from faucets, and exposed water pipes should be insulated or protected. Residents with outdoor plants that are sensitive to cold weather should consider bringing them inside or covering them when frost or freezing temperatures are expected.
Homeowners should also check their heating systems, replace dirty furnace filters, and make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
Pet owners are encouraged to provide warm, dry shelter for outdoor animals and bring pets indoors when temperatures approach freezing.
Those using portable space heaters should keep them at least three feet away from furniture, curtains, and other combustible materials. Space heaters should never be left operating unattended.
Drivers should also begin preparing vehicles for colder weather by checking antifreeze levels, tire pressure, and battery condition.
Although daytime temperatures will remain relatively mild during the first part of the week, the potential for a stronger cold spell later in the week makes this a good opportunity to prepare.
Residents can monitor updated forecasts and any frost or freeze advisories from the National Weather Service at https://www.weather.gov/ffc/.
Leadership Chattooga Students Visit Local Businesses And Organizations
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce’s 2027 Leadership Chattooga Student Edition recently completed a full day of activities focused on leadership and community involvement during its Industry Day.
The leadership program helps local high school juniors and seniors develop leadership skills while learning about community issues, local services, and resources. The program also prepares students for future roles in business, government, and civic organizations.
The students began their day in Trion at Mount Vernon Mills, where they toured the facility and learned how yarn is transformed into finished rolls of denim and twill fabric.
They also visited the Chattooga Animal Shelter to see the work being done under the leadership of Charlie Long and his staff. Students learned about the new kennels designed by Michael Warren with the county and built with help from local CTAE students.
Next, the group toured Smith Ironworks’ expanding facility in Lyerly with owner Drew Smith.
After lunch, the students visited Teloga Springs Farm, the county’s oldest operating farm of its kind, where Mandy Hicks shared its history and gave students a look at the work she and her husband do there.
The students will return to the Hurley Center training room for a deeper look into communication and presentation skills as they continue their leadership development program.
18-Year-Old Arrested Following Disturbance In Pennville Area
An 18-year-old man was arrested following a disturbance at a residence on Railroad Circle in the Pennville area of Chattooga County.
According to an incident report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Braylan Distance Tidmore, 18, was arrested on November 1, 2026, and charged with underage consumption or purchase of alcohol, disorderly conduct, and obstruction of an officer.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:19 PM at a residence at 142 Railroad Circle.
Sergeant Rob Villagomez responded to the residence and reported witnessing Tidmore in the yard screaming at a female.
The woman told the deputy that Tidmore had become upset after being awakened and had been arguing with her. She said he had asked her to leave and was yelling outside the residence.
According to the report, Sergeant Villagomez instructed Tidmore to stand away from the woman while the deputy attempted to speak with her. Tidmore allegedly refused to comply.
The deputy reported that Tidmore continued walking toward the woman despite repeated instructions to stop. When the deputy attempted to take him into custody for obstruction, Tidmore allegedly resisted by pulling away.
Sergeant Villagomez stated that he eventually placed Tidmore in handcuffs and escorted him to a patrol vehicle.
The report also states that Tidmore was yelling and cursing during the incident. The woman and another witness reportedly told the deputy that Tidmore had not pointed a firearm at anyone, despite the deputy initially being concerned about a possible firearm during the confrontation.
Tidmore was transported to the Chattooga County Jail. According to the deputy’s report, Tidmore admitted during transport that he had consumed alcohol.
The charges are accusations, and Tidmore is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Berry College To Host Memorial Deer Hunt Honoring Sgt. Ben Cunningham
Berry College is partnering with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division and Outdoors Beyond Barriers to host a special deer hunt in memory of Sgt. Ben Cunningham, a game warden who passed away suddenly while working on the project.
The event, named the Sgt. Ben Cunningham Memorial Hunt, will take place December 4–6, 2026, on Berry College property near Rome.
Eight hunters will be selected to participate in the special event, which will honor Cunningham’s memory and his efforts to help organize the hunt.
Applications are open now and will close November 20. Hunters selected through the drawing will be notified by November 27.
The memorial hunt will bring together Berry College, Georgia’s conservation law enforcement community, and Outdoors Beyond Barriers to carry forward a project Cunningham was helping organize before his unexpected death.
Those interested in applying or learning more about the event can visit the Georgia DNR’s Go Outdoors Georgia events registration website:
Chattooga County FFA And 4-H Pig Show And Auction Set For Tonight
Months of hard work by Chattooga County FFA and 4-H students will be on display this evening as the annual Pig Show and Auction takes place at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center in Summerville.
The event begins at 7 PM and marks the culmination of the annual Chattooga County Pig Project, which gives local students hands-on experience raising livestock while learning responsibility, animal care, and financial management.
Participating students received their hogs during the summer and have spent months feeding, caring for, and preparing their animals for the show and auction.
The students had an opportunity to exhibit their progress during the Chattooga County Agricultural Fair in August, where a market hog preview show featured showmanship competitions and weight classes.
Tonight’s event will give students an opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned before their hogs are sold at auction.
The Chattooga County Young Farmers Association coordinates the project, helping students gain practical experience in livestock production and agricultural business.
The auction is an important part of the program because proceeds from the sale of each student’s hog go directly to that student. The money can help support future agricultural projects, educational expenses, or college savings.
Buyers will have an opportunity to watch the students show their hogs before participating in the auction. Purchased animals will be delivered to a processor for the buyer.
The annual Pig Project has become an important part of agricultural education in Chattooga County, bringing together students, families, agricultural organizations, and local businesses in support of the next generation of farmers.
The public is encouraged to attend and support the participating students.
The Chattooga County FFA and 4-H Pig Show and Auction begins at 7 PM tonight at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center in Summerville.
Welcome Hill Water Line Replacement Project Could Begin Next Summer
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen (center) joins representatives of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for the presentation of a $1 million Community Development Block Grant to Chattooga County. The funding will support a major water line replacement project in the Welcome Hill community near Trion, including improvements to the water distribution system and additional fire hydrants.
A major water infrastructure improvement project planned for the Welcome Hill community near Trion is moving toward the construction phase, with Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen indicating that work could begin as early as the summer of 2027.
The approximately $1.34 million project will replace aging water lines, improve water service for residents, and provide additional fire hydrants in an area where dependable water infrastructure is important for both households and emergency response.
The county has secured $1 million in Community Development Block Grant funding for the improvements and will provide approximately $344,000 in matching funds.
The project represents a significant investment in a community where many residents have lived with aging infrastructure for years.
According to information presented during an October 15 public hearing, the project is expected to benefit approximately 118 residents, including 91 who qualify as having low to moderate incomes.
The Community Development Block Grant program is designed to help communities address essential needs, particularly in areas where improvements benefit low- and moderate-income households.
Construction Timeline Taking Shape
Commissioner Allen has outlined the next steps necessary before construction can begin.
The county must complete the remaining preparations for the project, move through the competitive bidding process, and award a construction contract.
Allen indicated that, depending on the progress of those steps, construction could begin during the summer of 2027.
Once work gets underway, the project is expected to require approximately one year to complete, placing potential completion sometime in 2028 if the anticipated schedule holds.
The projected timeline is not a guaranteed start date. The actual construction schedule will depend on the bidding process, contractor selection, and completion of the required preliminary work.
Replacing Aging Water Infrastructure
One of the primary goals of the Welcome Hill project is to replace aging water lines that serve the community.
Water distribution lines are an essential part of a community’s infrastructure, carrying treated water from the public water system to homes and other customers.
As water lines age, they can become more susceptible to leaks, breaks, and other maintenance problems. Replacing older infrastructure can help improve the long-term reliability of the system and reduce the likelihood of service interruptions.
The planned improvements are intended to provide Welcome Hill residents with a more dependable water distribution system while addressing infrastructure needs that can become increasingly expensive if left unattended.
Additional Fire Hydrants Planned
Another important component of the project is the installation of additional fire hydrants.
Fire hydrants provide firefighters with access to water during emergency operations. Their availability and placement can be especially important in rural communities where water access may be more limited than in densely developed areas.
The Welcome Hill improvements will include new hydrants as part of the upgraded water distribution system.
While the installation of additional hydrants is expected to improve access to water for firefighting, the effectiveness of those improvements will also depend on factors such as available water pressure, flow capacity, and the design of the completed system.
A Significant Investment In Welcome Hill
The $1 million grant will cover the majority of the project’s estimated cost, while the county’s matching contribution will provide the remaining funding.
For a project serving approximately 118 residents, the investment reflects the substantial expense involved in replacing public water infrastructure, particularly when construction involves underground utilities, road crossings, and the installation of additional system components.
The improvements are intended to provide benefits that extend well beyond the construction period.
A modernized water distribution system can help reduce future maintenance demands, support more reliable service, and provide infrastructure that will serve the community for years to come.
For Welcome Hill residents, the next major milestone will be the county’s movement toward bidding and awarding the construction contract.
If the process proceeds according to Commissioner Allen’s anticipated schedule, construction could begin next summer, with the improvements potentially completed in 2028.
Art Show At Summerville Depot And Historical Society Meeting Highlight Sunday Activities
Chattooga County residents have two opportunities to enjoy local art, history and community activities today, Sunday, November 8, with the final day of the Community Art Show and Sale at the Summerville Depot and a meeting of the Chattooga County Historical Society in Lyerly.
The Community Art Show and Sale continues today at the historic Summerville Depot, featuring artwork created by both youth and adult artists. The event provides an opportunity for visitors to view and purchase locally created artwork while supporting the area’s creative community.
The art show coincides with the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s steam-powered excursion train, which is expected to arrive in Summerville around 1 PM. The train’s arrival adds another attraction for visitors spending the afternoon downtown.
Free train rides and face painting are also among the activities offered in connection with the weekend event, making it an outing for families and children.
Meanwhile, the Chattooga County Historical Society will hold its regular meeting this afternoon from 2 until 4 PM at the historic Finley-Sanford House in Lyerly.
The meeting offers an opportunity for residents interested in local history to gather and learn more about the preservation of Chattooga County’s heritage.
The Historical Society is also featuring its 2026 Christmas ornament, which commemorates the historic Trion Railroad Bridge, built in 1898. The annual ornament series highlights landmarks and historical sites associated with Chattooga County’s past.
Both events offer opportunities to celebrate the county’s history and culture, whether through the work of local artists at the Summerville Depot or the preservation efforts of the Historical Society in Lyerly.
Arrest Report - Sunday - November 8, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, November 8, 2026:
Sunny Skies To Start The Week Before Colder Weather Arrives In Chattooga County
Chattooga County will enjoy several days of sunshine and mild afternoon temperatures before a cold front brings cooler weather and a slight chance of rain later in the week.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, Sunday will be sunny with a high near 67 degrees. North winds around 5 mph will become calm during the morning. Sunday night will be clear and chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 36 degrees.
Residents can expect another pleasant day Monday, with sunshine and a high near 70. Monday night will be mostly clear with a low around 38.
Tuesday will bring mostly sunny skies and a high near 71, followed by partly cloudy conditions Tuesday night and a low around 41.
The forecast for Veterans Day on Wednesday looks favorable for outdoor ceremonies and activities. Skies will be mostly sunny with an afternoon high near 70 degrees, providing comfortable conditions for the Veterans Day Parade in Summerville. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy with a low around 46 and a 20 percent chance of showers after 1 AM.
A change in the weather pattern is expected Thursday as a cold front approaches the region. The National Weather Service forecasts partly sunny skies, a 20 percent chance of showers and a high near 63 degrees. Thursday night temperatures will fall to around 38.
By Friday, noticeably cooler air will settle into Northwest Georgia. The forecast calls for mostly sunny skies with a high of only 54 degrees, nearly 17 degrees cooler than Tuesday’s expected high.
Forecasters say the first half of the week will feature temperatures running approximately 5 to 10 degrees above normal for November. Rain chances will remain very low through Wednesday, continuing an extended period of dry weather across northern and central Georgia.
There is some uncertainty about how a developing weather system will affect the Southeast late in the week. Depending on how the system develops, rain chances could change Thursday, although the arrival of cooler temperatures appears more certain.
The National Weather Service also cautions that colder overnight temperatures could develop by Friday night and into next weekend. Some areas of North Georgia may experience freezing temperatures, with the coldest mountain locations potentially dropping into the middle 20s.
Residents with sensitive outdoor plants should monitor the forecast as the colder air approaches.
For now, Chattooga County can look forward to a sunny Sunday, a mild beginning to the workweek and favorable weather for Wednesday’s Veterans Day observances before a significant cooldown arrives toward the end of the week.
Summerville Man Arrested After Allegedly Hiding From Officers At Apartment Complex
A 24-year-old Summerville man was arrested October 30 after allegedly attempting to hide from law enforcement officers who were trying to serve an active warrant at the Lake Wanda Rita Apartments.
According to a report from the Summerville Police Department, Keshawn Gawyn Isham was charged with two counts of obstruction of law enforcement officers following the incident.
The report states that Lieutenant Corey Fielding and Sergeant Roberto Villagomez responded to the apartment complex around 2:32 PM after receiving information that Isham was at the property and had an active warrant.
When officers arrived, they learned that Isham was possibly staying in an upstairs apartment. Officers made contact with a woman at the residence who reportedly told them she was attempting to get Isham to come outside.
According to the police report, officers entered the apartment after being told Isham was inside. They searched the interior of the residence but were initially unable to locate him.
The report states that Isham was eventually found hiding in a closet.
During the incident, officers also reported that a woman at the apartment attempted to interfere with their efforts to locate and arrest Isham.
Isham was taken into custody and transported to the Chattooga County Jail. Police charged him with two counts of obstruction of law enforcement officers for allegedly hiding from officers while they were attempting to carry out their duties.
The arrest was documented in a Summerville Police Department incident report dated October 30, 2026.
All individuals charged with crimes are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Trion First Baptist Church Collecting Christmas Shoebox Gifts And Peanut Butter Donations
Trion First Baptist Church is participating in Operation Christmas Child again this year while also collecting peanut butter to help families in need through the Chattooga County Resource Center.
The church is inviting residents to fill shoeboxes with gifts for children around the world as part of the annual Operation Christmas Child program. The shoeboxes will be distributed to children in need during the Christmas season.
Anyone interested in participating can pick up an empty shoebox at the church, along with packing instructions and suggested gift lists. Completed shoeboxes must be returned to the church office by November 15.
A $10 shipping fee is required for each shoebox and is due when the completed box is returned. Checks should be made payable to Trion First Baptist Church.
In addition to the Christmas shoebox project, the church is conducting a peanut butter drive throughout November to benefit the Chattooga County Resource Center.
Residents are encouraged to donate peanut butter, which can be dropped off at the church office through November 30.
The two projects provide opportunities for local residents to help children around the world while also supporting families facing food insecurity here in Chattooga County.
Trion First Baptist Church is located at 95 Church Street in Trion.
Chattooga County Young Farmers Hog Show Set For Monday
The annual Chattooga County Young Farmers Hog Show and Auction will take place Monday, November 9, at the Chattooga Agricultural Center in Summerville.
The event begins at 7 PM at the agricultural center, located at 40 Middle School Road, and the community is invited to attend and support local students who have spent months raising and preparing their market hogs for competition.
The annual show gives young agricultural enthusiasts an opportunity to demonstrate their hard work and dedication while showcasing the animals they have raised. Participants are responsible for caring for their hogs, monitoring their growth and preparing them for judging.
The event also includes an auction, providing an opportunity for community members and businesses to support the students while purchasing locally raised pork.
Beyond the competition, the Young Farmers Hog Show provides valuable hands-on experience in animal husbandry, responsibility and agricultural education. Students learn about feeding, animal health, recordkeeping and the commitment required to raise livestock.
The annual event is a longstanding tradition that brings together students, families, agricultural supporters and local residents while highlighting the importance of agriculture in Chattooga County.
The show and auction begin Monday evening at 7 PM at the Chattooga Agricultural Center, 40 Middle School Road in Summerville.
Northwest Georgia Area Agency On Aging To Hold Public Meeting November 17 In Rome
The Northwest Georgia Area Agency on Aging will hold its quarterly meeting on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission Conference Room in Rome.
The meeting is scheduled to begin at 10 AM at 1 Jackson Hill Drive, Rome, Georgia.
The Area Agency on Aging serves older adults and their families throughout Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County, by helping connect residents with programs and services designed to support independent living and improve quality of life.
The agency works with community organizations and service providers to coordinate resources for older residents, including nutrition programs, caregiver support, transportation assistance and other services.
The quarterly meeting provides an opportunity for the agency to conduct business related to aging services throughout the region.
The meeting is open to the public.
Trion Bulldogs Headed To State Playoffs - Will Host BEST Academy
The Trion Bulldogs are headed to the Georgia High School Association Class A state football playoffs following an impressive 8–2 regular season, capped by a 40–7 victory over BEST Academy of Atlanta Friday night at Sam R. McCain Stadium.
The Bulldogs will face a familiar opponent in the opening round of the state playoffs. According to the GHSA Class A playoff bracket, eighth-seeded Trion will host 25th-seeded BEST Academy on Friday, November 13, setting up a rematch just one week after the two teams met in their regular-season finale.
Friday night’s convincing victory gave Trion its eighth win of the season and provided momentum heading into postseason competition.
The Bulldogs’ eight regular-season victories came against Gordon Lee, Ridgeland, Dade County, Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe, Northview, Greenville, Manchester and BEST Academy.
Trion opened the season with a 36–7 victory over Gordon Lee before falling to Model. The Bulldogs then put together a five-game winning streak that included a 42–35 victory over Dade County, a 49–0 shutout of Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe and a 50–0 win over Greenville.
Following a loss to Bowdon in October, Trion bounced back with a 35–7 victory over Manchester on October 23 before closing out the regular season with Friday’s 40–7 win over BEST Academy.
The Bulldogs compete in Class A Region 7 under head coach Sean Patrick.
Under the GHSA’s postseason ranking system, playoff seeding takes into account a team’s performance and strength of schedule. Trion’s No. 8 seed gives the Bulldogs a first-round home game.
The playoff pairing creates an unusual situation, with Trion and BEST Academy meeting on consecutive Fridays at the same stadium. This time, however, the winner will advance to the second round of the state playoffs, while the losing team’s season will come to an end.
The Bulldogs will look to carry the momentum from their regular-season finale into Friday night’s postseason rem
Cedartown Police Officer Will Not Face Criminal Charges In Shooting Of Donkey
A Cedartown police officer who shot and killed a miniature donkey during a search for a missing child in Polk County will not face criminal charges, according to a report released by Tallapoosa Judicial Circuit District Attorney Jaeson Smith.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight on August 30, when officers were searching for a missing 12-year-old girl in a rural area of Polk County. During the search, officers entered a fenced pasture where they encountered a miniature donkey named HeeHaw.
Cedartown Police Officer Trenton Garner fired a single shot, killing the animal. According to the district attorney’s report, officers believed the donkey posed an immediate threat after it approached them while they were searching the property.
The 12-page report details the investigation, including body-camera footage, witness interviews, dispatch records and findings from the Georgia Department of Agriculture.
Smith concluded that Garner reasonably believed another officer was in danger when he fired the shot. The report states that officers initially backed away from the approaching donkey and that another officer attempted to use a Taser before Garner fired.
However, the district attorney’s findings differ from an earlier assessment by a Georgia Department of Agriculture investigator, who believed the officer’s actions violated criminal statutes.
Smith questioned portions of that investigation, including how the investigator evaluated the officers’ perception of danger and witness statements concerning the donkey’s previous behavior.
The donkey’s owner, Hannah Israel, disputes the officer’s account, maintaining that HeeHaw was friendly, accustomed to people and had never displayed aggressive behavior. Other witnesses interviewed during the investigation described previous incidents in which the animal allegedly behaved aggressively.
Although the district attorney has determined that criminal charges are not warranted, the legal dispute surrounding the shooting is far from over.
Israel has filed a federal civil lawsuit alleging that officers entered her fenced property without permission or a warrant and that the shooting violated her constitutional rights. The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages.
Attorneys representing Israel have challenged the district attorney’s findings and say they intend to continue pursuing accountability through the courts.
Garner has asked a federal judge to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that he acted to protect another officer from what he reasonably perceived as an immediate threat.
The district attorney’s decision concludes the criminal review of the shooting, but the separate civil case remains unresolved.