Construction has begun on the new Lantern at Morning Pointe at Happy Valley, an assisted living and memory care center. The facility will feature two levels of specialized memory care, designed to support individuals with early and advanced stages of dementia. The project is expected to create between 45 and 60 new jobs and generate a $25 million economic impact for the area. The Lantern is scheduled to open in early 2026.
The Walker County Health Department is offering free health screenings today for children ages 3 to 18. Check-ups include hearing, vision, dental, and nutrition, along with 3300 Forms for school enrollment. Drop by between 1 and 6 p.m. at the Health Department, located at 603 East Villanow Street in LaFayette. Take advantage of this opportunity to ensure your child’s health and school readiness.
Sole Commissioner Andy Allen has reported an incident at the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office on May 13th. Police were called after a meeting involving Commissioner Allen and a man named Jordan Blackshear escalated. According to the report, Blackshear attempted to offer a $100,000 check to proceed with a project, which was refused. The situation worsened when Blackshear made political threats and then refused to leave the office. Law enforcement was contacted, but Blackshear had already left before officers arrived. No further action has been reported at this time.
The Georgia Department of Driver Services is warning the public about a scam involving fake text messages claiming to be from the “State DMV” regarding unpaid traffic tickets. These messages are fraudulent attempts to steal personal and financial information. Drivers are advised not to click on any suspicious links. DDS will never request payment via text message. To verify any information, visit the official website at dds.drives.ga.gov. Stay vigilant and protect your personal data.
Attention drivers in Catoosa County: CSX will conduct maintenance work on railroad crossings beginning Sunday, June 1, through Saturday, June 7. Some crossings may be closed for periods ranging from 24 to 48 hours; however, most closures are expected to be brief, lasting only a few hours. Not all crossings will be closed simultaneously. The schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions. Motorists are advised to plan accordingly and observe posted detours.
Ford Motor Company is recalling nearly 1.1 million Ford and Lincoln vehicles due to a software issue that may cause the rearview camera to freeze while the vehicle is in reverse. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns this malfunction can provide a false view of the vehicle’s surroundings, increasing the risk of a crash. So far, Ford is aware of one minor crash but no injuries. Affected models range from 2021 to 2025, including popular Ford Broncos, F-150s, and Lincoln Navigators. Ford will offer a free software update, either remotely or at dealerships. Owners can expect notification letters starting June 16.
The Honeybee Festival in Downtown LaFayette is happening thisSaturday! It’s a FREE, family-friendly day filled with food and craft vendors, a kids zone, bee-themed seminars, a honey show, and educational exhibits. Live music featuring BIAS from NBC TV’s The Voice, Robby Hopkins, LaFayette’s own Ben Chapman, Dylan Schneider, and headliner Chris Lane.