Midweek observations on even more new homes (locally built), conservation easements, tempting gelato. Dining: Sam's Southern Eatery is a jumbo (shrimp) hit. Longtime builder, Lindale supporter remembered.

Heritage First Headlines

• Midweek observations: Even more new homes due soon -- from local builders. Honeycream is teasing us with gelato photos. Dubious Rome shoutout in conservation easement column. And back to the microphone.
• Funeral services today for 2019 Model High graduate who died in land-clearing accident.
• Remembering Herman Franklin Robinson, 96: Longtime local builder, active in American Legion Post 136 for nearly 70 years.
• Dining review:  'Mean cuisine' at Sam's Southern Eatery: Classic regional favorites, large servings and -- finally -- 'real' jumbo shrimp (great chicken livers, too).
• 4 COVID patients in Floyd, Redmond as of Tuesday, up 1. More than 34,000 virus cases in NW Georgia in 15 months as new reports fall sharply.
• Buzz: Heroes Unified blood drive is Thursday at Law Enforcement Center, jail; open to all. Big Texas Valley Road reopens; repairs complete.
• Education: Georgia Highlands holds an in-person graduation ceremony for members of the Class of 2020.
• Ware Mechanical Weather Center: Just a slight chance of rain through Friday with highs in the mid 80s.
• Obituaries: Mr. Rashaun Keyontae Cummings,  Mr. Harry Audley "Buddy" Rayburn, Mr. Herman Franklin Robinson, Mr. Phillip Shikoto, Mr. Roger Daniel Turner.
• Dining: Public Health restaurant inspection scores, Tuesday-Saturday.
• Crimewatch brought to you by thestoragehound.com. Updates on arrests.

Truett's Chick-fil-A Sports Report 

• Rome Braves at Aberdeen, Md., today-Sunday. Next home game: July 6. Plus: Roster updates.
• Atlanta Braves at Mets tonight; at Reds Thursday through Sunday. Plus: Roster updates.
• Atlanta Hawks play Bucks in conference finals tonight.
• Rome Redbacks Australian Rules Football Club hosts Three Rivers Cup Saturday.
• Youth Outdoor Championships in town today through Saturday.