As new COVID cases climb, little change in local vaccination numbers. Bob Blumberg -- who pumped cash, sweat into Broad Street's growth -- leaving Rome. Overdue changes for Floyd elections staff proposed. Today's heat index: 104.

Heritage First Headlines

• COVID: Little change in local vaccination rates even as cases, hospitalizations climb. Region at 28.8%; state now at 40%. More women stepping up than men.
• Business: Bob Blumberg, downtown restaurant owner and Broad Street advocate, leaving Rome. Chamber, existing industries set manufacturing job fair set for Aug. 18 at GNTC.
• More changes proposed for Floyd County elections operation, including overdue salary increases and staffing update.
• Buzz: Regional honors for Sara Grace Abernathy. Ribbon cutting for Chattooga ag center this week. Rome/Floyd burn building ceremony is Aug. 2.
• Ware Mechanical Weather Center: A good afternoon to stay indoors; index of 104 forecast peaking between 4 and 5 p.m.
• Obituaries: Mrs. Alva Jean Broome, Mr. Robert Lawrence "Larry" Best Jr.
• Dining: Public Health restaurant inspection scores, Tuesday-Saturday.
• Crimewatch brought to you by Big Dan's Car Wash. Updates on arrests.

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Harbin Clinic Headlines: Today's latest update on the 10 doctors joining Georgia's largest privately owned, physician-led healthcare community.

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Truett's Chick-fil-A Sports Report 

• Rome Braves close out rough road trip to Bowling Green; off today; home starting Tuesday vs. Asheville.
• Atlanta Braves at Mets for double-header today. Home starting Friday vs. Brewers.
• Berry football news.
• Falcons' latest updates.
• Fall sports registrations are under way.
• Tillman run is Aug. 21; how to sign up.