Local News Update: Calhoun And Gordon County

Weather & Safety Advisory
A dangerous heat and severe weather threat headlines the forecast today, with a Heat Advisory remaining in effect through this evening. Heat index values could reach up to 106 degrees, alongside a Marginal Risk for severe afternoon and evening thunderstorms capable of producing 60 mph wind gusts and heavy downpours. Gordon County Sheriff Mitch Ralston urges residents to check on elderly neighbors, vulnerable individuals, and pets during these extreme temperatures. Residents are advised to recognize the warning signs of heat exhaustion—such as dizziness, heavy sweating, nausea, headache, and weakness—and heat stroke, marked by confusion, a rapid pulse, high body temperature, hot or dry skin, and loss of consciousness, which requires immediate 911 emergency medical care.
Recent Arrests
The Gordon County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement agencies reported the following recent arrests:
Jouzafen Manssour Douhne (pronounced DOON) 48 Calhoun GCSO Simple Battery (Pre-book)
Charles Frank Gordon 55 Ranger GCSO Stalking (Prebook)
Jared Ryan Hopper 34 Calhoun GCSO Battery FVA
Ricky Lee Johnson 57 Calhoun GCSO Probation Violation – Commit New Offense O/C: Possession of Meth
Byron Elisman Lopez 28 Calhoun CPD Possession and Use of Drug Related Objects, Possession of Firearm or Knife During Commission of or Attempt to Commit Certain, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana W/ Intent to Distribute, Possession of THC Wax, Dabs, Tetrahydrocannabinol, Sale of a Schedule I Controlled Substance, Use of Communication Facility in Commission of a Felony Involving Controlled Sub
Patricia Ann Weaver 64 Calhoun GBI Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Tools for Commission of a Crime
Ryan Charles Ammerman 51 Calhoun GSP Driving Under the Influence, Speeding 94/70
Henry Stephen Taff 47 Calhoun GCSO Battery/Simple Battery-Family Violence – /Misd
Local Government
In county government news, the Gordon County Board of Commissioners meets on August 18, 2026, in the Judicial Building Assembly Room. Proceedings begin with a 5:00 PM Work Session, followed by the Regular Session at 6:00 PM.
Three Agricultural-to-Residential (A-1 to R-1) rezoning requests headline the public hearing agenda, each carrying unanimous 5-0 approval recommendations from the Planning Commission. Manuel Vega is requesting to rezone 4.94 acres at 504 Craigtown Road NE to allow a family division for a new residence. Andrew Jones is seeking rezoning on a 0.786-acre tract at 192 Timms Loop SE to resolve existing setback and nonconforming structure issues. Bron Stanley is requesting to rezone over five acres at 346 Newtown Loop Creek to subdivide the rear portion into multiple residential lots.
Under new business, commissioners will consider a Community Development reorganization plan, FY27 budget amendments, and a three-year disaster debris monitoring contract between EMA and DebrisTech, LLC. The board will also address two Gordon County Board of Education items: permission to install a sidewalk on county property at no county expense, and a land swap involving Liberty School and property at the Sonoraville Recreation complex. Additionally, Gordon County Administrator Jim Ledbetter will present the scheduled Administrator’s Report.
Community Announcements
The Family Resource Center is currently collecting donations for the August edition of Carol’s Closet. They are asking for quick-to-grab items like baby wipes and dryer sheets to help families in need. Donations can be dropped off at the FRC office Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Businesses or groups looking to coordinate larger donations are encouraged to reach out to the center directly.
Economy & Gas Prices
In economic news, gas prices across Georgia are currently averaging $3.80 per gallon for regular unleaded as of this morning. Gordon County drivers can find better rates locally, with cash transactions available for as low as $3.39 per gallon.
Local Sports
Gordon County Parks and Recreation Director Craig Sparks has announced the final participation numbers for this fall’s youth sports programs. The county is preparing for a busy season, highlighted by the debut of a girls’ flag football league—the first time ever for the program—which saw 26 players register. Other totals include:
5/6 Flag Football: 69 players
7/8 Tackle Football: 68 players
9/10 Tackle Football: 51 players
11/12 Tackle Football: 33 players
Cheerleading: 95 participants
Volleyball: 79 total players across three age groups
Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves avoided a weekend sweep by defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-3 on Sunday behind a decisive three-run homer from Matt Olson in the seventh inning. Because Ronald Acuña Jr. doubled in the fifth inning yesterday, fans can claim a free McDouble today through the McDonald’s app. The Braves are in Minneapolis tonight to open a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins at 7:40 PM.