The U.S. Department of Agriculture will begin distributing more than 500-thousand oral rabies vaccine baits across Northwest Georgia this month. The aerial operation is expected to begin around October seventh with helicopters, followed by low-flying airplanes beginning around October 20th in Walker County. The vaccine targets raccoons and other wildlife, helping reduce the spread of rabies to people and domestic animals. Residents who find an intact bait are asked to leave it alone, or use gloves to move it deeper into the brush. Pet owners should also avoid taking baits away from animals, which could result in a bite or exposure to the vaccine.
Walker County Schools has launched a new Parent Mentor Facebook page to support parents and guardians of students with disabilities. The page will provide information, resources and support for families navigating special education and other services available to students. Parents and guardians can find the Walker County Schools Parent Mentor page on Facebook by searching “Walker County Schools Parent Mentor.”
Chickamauga Police Chief Ronald “Bugs” Roach is retiring after more than a decade leading the city’s police department. Roach announced his retirement at last weeks City Council meeting. His retirement will be effective December 31st. Roach has served as police chief since 2014. The City Council has confirmed Lieutenant Josh Garrison to be the city’s new police chief.
Halloween is right around the corner, and the Better Business Bureau is warning shoppers to be careful when buying costumes online. The BBB says while some websites are offering great deals, others may not be legitimate. Officials recommend checking the website address and company name carefully before making a purchase, and making sure the site is secure before entering payment information. The BBB also says look for “HTTPS” at the beginning of the web address — an indication the site has a secure connection.