Local News Update: Calhoun And Gordon County

Heavy, intense overnight thunderstorms heavily impacted the local region yesterday, prompting an active Flash Flood Warning from the National Weather Service. Doppler radar estimates indicated that between 1.5 and 2.5 inches of rain fell rapidly across eastern Gordon County, southwestern Gilmer County, west-central Pickens County, and southeastern Murray County, with an additional 1 to 1.5 inches falling during the peak of the storm. The sudden deluge caused immediate roadway flooding in several local communities, including Fairmount, Ranger, Oakman, Carters, Ramhurst, Tails Creek, and areas surrounding Fort Mountain State Park. Local emergency officials urged motorists to exercise extreme caution and strictly adhere to safety protocols, reminding the public to always turn around and avoid driving through moving water or deep, unverified puddles.

In an ongoing effort to protect motorists and encourage traffic safety, the Calhoun Police Department has announced that its high-visibility “Click It or Ticket” seatbelt enforcement campaign is actively underway. Drivers can expect an increased police presence on municipal roadways as officers strictly monitor compliance with Georgia’s safety belt laws. Local law enforcement officials emphasize that wearing a seatbelt remains the single most effective defense against injury or death in a traffic collision, and officers will be issuing citations to any vehicle occupants found traveling unbuckled during this targeted enforcement period.

During our morning broadcast, we were honored to be joined live on air by City of Calhoun Mayor Jimmy Palmer and Calhoun Recreation Department Director Kim Townsend. The conversation focused on the wide array of upcoming summer programs and activities tailored to youngsters, families, and senior citizens throughout the community. From seasonal sports leagues and youth camps to social gatherings and specialized health programs for seniors, the recreation department has finalized a comprehensive summer schedule. For complete details, schedules, and registration deadlines, residents are encouraged to visit the official department portal at calhounrec.com.

Healthcare and preventive wellness remain a key focus this month, as AdventHealth Gordon continues to offer its special $30 screening mammogram initiative. This heavily discounted rate is aimed at making essential breast cancer screenings highly accessible to women across the community, highlighting that early detection saves lives. Meanwhile, local agricultural traditions returned over the weekend as the 2026 Calhoun Farmers Market successfully kicked off its summer season on Saturday, May 23rd at City Park on North Wall Street. The opening day brought a strong turnout of residents stocking up on fresh spring vegetables, strawberries, local honey, farm-fresh eggs, and handmade crafts from regional makers.

In education news, State School Superintendent officials formally designated Gordon Central High School as a 2026 AP Honor School. The local high school achieved prestigious dual recognition, being named both an AP Access & Support School for expanding advanced college-level coursework options, and an AP Challenge School for its robust testing metrics across core subjects like English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Additionally, public outreach efforts continue for Paw Angels Dog Rescue, a local non-profit foster-based organization that relies entirely on donations and grants. Following a well-attended community meet-and-greet at the public library on Tuesday afternoon, organizers are continually seeking items from their supply wishlist, including dry dog food, chew toys, and blankets. Community members can learn more or support their veterinary care fund by visiting www.pawangels.org.

The local booking ledger from the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office and municipal law enforcement includes several recent processing actions. Stacey Brian Cannon, 54, of Calhoun, was taken into custody by Calhoun Police Department officers on charges of disorderly conduct alongside an active bench warrant for burning. Separately, the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office arrested 60-year-old Roy Rex Evans of Cohutta on an active probation violation stemming from a battery charge. Demond Cleveland Hawkins, 48, of Calhoun, was booked into the county facility on dual counts of theft by receiving stolen property and theft by taking.

Further bookings include Tyre Tyshune Hawkins, 45, of Adairsville, who was arrested for a technical probation violation tied to prior charges of identity fraud, fraudulent credit, and a VGCSA pre-book offense. Adairsville resident Gerardo Leon-Sagastume, 51, was booked by sheriff’s deputies on a single count of stalking. Finally, Christopher Dewayne Loveless, 36, of Cave Spring, was arrested by the Calhoun Police Department and charged under the Family Violence Act with criminal trespass and simple battery.