Labor Day weekend brought a spike in traffic across Georgia — and with it, a troubling number of incidents. The Georgia Department of Public Safety reports 15 traffic deaths statewide over the holiday. Troopers responded to 284 crashes, with 151 people injured. DUI arrests reached 425, and there were over 700 citations for distracted driving. Seatbelt violations topped 1,000. Officials say increased patrols were on the roads to keep drivers safe — and they’re urging Georgians to stay alert every time they get behind the wheel.
The CHI Memorial Mobile Mammography Bus will be at the Walker County Health Department on Tuesday, October 7, offering screening mammograms. Appointments are required — call 706-638-5577 to schedule yours today.
The Chattooga County Health Department in Summerville is now offering flu vaccines on a walk-in basis. Hours are Monday through Wednesday, 8 to 4:30, Thursday until 6, and Friday until 1:30. The CDC recommends flu shots for everyone six months and older — ideally before the end of October. Regular vaccines are $35, and high-dose shots for those 65 and older are $55, though most insurance plans cover the cost. For more info, call 706-857-3471 or visit NWGAPublicHealth.org.
Dove hunting season opens in Georgia this Saturday, September 6. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources says the season runs in three parts through January 31. Shooting hours begin half an hour before sunrise and end at sunset, with a daily bag limit of 15 doves. Hunters are encouraged to use public dove fields, report any banded birds, and complete the Dove Harvest Survey. All hunters 16 and older must have a valid hunting license and migratory bird license. More info at GeorgiaWildlife.com.
The U.S. Postal Service will honor former President Jimmy Carter with a commemorative Forever stamp on what would have been his 101st birthday. A dedication ceremony will be held October 1st at 11 a.m. at The Carter Center in Atlanta. The event is free and open to the public, but attendees must register at usps.com/jimmycarterstamp. The stamp features artwork by Herbert E. Abrams and celebrates Carter’s life of service — from president to global humanitarian.
The LaFayette Lady Ramblers varsity softball team took down Ringgold in a big win, thanks to a dominant performance by Marlie Day, who struck out six and allowed no walks. In JV action, the Ramblers fell just short, losing 7-6. Rylan Stephenson led with two hits, and four other players added one each. Both teams return to the field tomorrow at Gordon Lee — varsity at 5:30, with JV to follow.