Cloudy Skies This Morning Will Give Way To Rain Through Midweek

Residents of Northwest Georgia are in for a cloudy Monday with highs only in the low to mid-50’s and rain showers overnight into Tuesday.

This morning, weather reports show a nearly stationary front across the south-central regions. A low pressure system is moving east along this front and is currently over the Carolinas. It is expected to move out to sea today, pushing the front south along the Gulf Coast. High pressure will build in the Appalachians, creating a wedge by early Tuesday, while the front stays in place over the Gulf. Today will have a zonal flow, shifting to a southwesterly direction on Tuesday, bringing moisture from the Gulf. This flow will cause light rain to continue into early Tuesday, with potential for heavier rain later by evening in Northwest Georgia.

Looking ahead, a longwave trough will move across the western U. S. , transporting moisture into the Southeast. This will create a frontal system from the Lower Mississippi Valley to the Tennessee Valley, leading to moderate to heavy rainfall in North and Central Georgia. Rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are expected, especially north of Interstate 20. Residents should prepare for rainy conditions and possible flash flooding. High temperatures will range from the upper 50s.

Mobile Food Pantry In Teloga Saturday

The Teloga Community will host a mobile food pantry next Saturday from 10am-12pm at Beersheba Presbyterian Church. Please don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it. For safety reasons, please do not start lining up until 9:45am. Volunteers are always appreciated; please arrive at 9:15am to ensure timely parking and orientation. No ID is required; you will be asked a few questions before collecting your groceries. We hope to see the community come out and support this event. The Teloga Volunteer Fire Department will be doing traffic control.

Trion Will Have A New Mini Soccer Field Courtesy Of AtriumHealth Floyd-Polk Foundation

Trion will soon have a new mini soccer field due to a partnership between Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation, and the Atlanta United Community Fund (AUCF). This project will build mini soccer fields in Rome, Trion, and Rockmart, providing fresh opportunities for youth soccer.

The AUCF has pledged $275,000 for the construction of three mini fields: one for the YMCA of Rome and Floyd County, and one each for Rockmart and Trion. Additionally, Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation will add about $325,000 to support the project. Each field will measure 104 feet by 60 feet and will have lighting, expected to be finished by year-end.

The pitch in Trion will be built at the town of Trion Parks and Recreation Department on Dalton Street. Rockmart’s pitch will be located at Hogue Avenue Park. “This is fantastic,” said Trion Mayor Lanny Thomas. “We would not have had the financial ability to build this without the help of the Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation. I know we will get a lot of use out of this.”

The communities will provide staffing and programming for the fields, which will be open for public use. The Atrium Health Floyd-Polk Foundation focuses on improving community health, especially for youth. The new mini-pitches in this project are part of the GA100 initiative, aiming to develop up to 100 mini-pitches in Georgia’s under-resourced areas, with the current count reaching 40.

Chattooga Chamber Hosts Lunch & Learn On Heart Health Month Sponsored by Advent Health

February marks Heart Health Month, and the Chattooga Chamber is excited to continue its tradition of promoting cardiovascular wellness in the community. This year, the Chamber is partnering once again with Advent Health to bring an informative Lunch & Learn event that promises to be both enlightening and engaging. The event will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, February 11, featuring Dr. Jose Marino, a renowned interventional and vascular neurologist.

Dr. Marino is celebrated for his expertise in providing life-changing care for conditions such as aneurysms and strokes, making him a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn more about heart health and prevention. This community-focused luncheon is an excellent opportunity for attendees to gain insights into maintaining heart health and recognizing the signs and symptoms of cardiovascular issues. Dr. Marino’s presentation will cover essential topics and offer practical advice that can empower individuals to take charge of their health.

The event is complimentary, courtesy of Advent Health, but RSVPs are required for catering purposes. Participants are encouraged to confirm their attendance to ensure they do not miss out on this vital opportunity to learn about heart health.

Find a link to register HERE

Woman Arrested For Pedestrian Under The Influence Following Disturbance

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According to a report released last week by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a disturbance call at 300 Perennial Springs Rd on the evening of January 31, where a 46-year-old white female, identified as Heather Nicole Mocool, was arrested for being a pedestrian under the influence.

Deputies arrived at the scene to find Mocool in a distressed state, reportedly screaming and demanding to retrieve her belongings from a residence nearby. Witnesses noted her frantic behavior and strong odor of alcohol. According to the arresting deputy, Mocool was visibly intoxicated and expressed confusion, claiming to have come from a nearby address, 54 Booker Rd. Witnesses reported that Mocool had been involved in a confrontation before her outburst. As deputies attempted to assess the situation, she continued to shout and displayed aggressive behavior. Despite her intoxication, she defiantly suggested that deputies should take her to jail if they wished.

Mocool was subsequently handcuffed and placed in the patrol vehicle, where her agitation continued, leading to further outbursts during transport. However, upon arrival at the Chattooga County Jail, she reportedly calmed down and expressed remorse for her earlier conduct. She was issued a citation for pedestrian under the influence/

Family Displaced By Fire In Menlo

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The Menlo Fire Department swiftly responded to a house fire on Saturday evening at 3 Graham Street, located on the north side of Menlo City Hall and behind Lucky’s Supermarket. Firefighters arrived on the scene to find that the blaze had originated in the kitchen area of the home. Thanks to the rapid response and efficient efforts of the Menlo Fire Department, the flames were contained primarily to the kitchen, preventing further damage to the structure. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident. However, the fire has left Gabby Dyer and her 9-year-old son, Isaiah, displaced from their home. The American Red Cross is currently providing assistance to the family, which has been deemed a total loss. Those wishing to help may contact Nicole Rosser or Donna Koonce on Facebook.

Governor Announces Staff Changes

Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp announced changes in his legal team last week due to Kristyn Long’s departure to become General Counsel for the Georgia Hospital Association, effective February 14. Sam Hatcher will take over as Executive Counsel, while Christine Hayes and Rachel Byers will continue as Deputy Executive Counsel and Associate Executive Counsel, respectively.

Evan Meyers has also left his position as Deputy Executive Counsel after more than three years. Governor Kemp expressed excitement for Sam’s new role and gratitude for Kristyn’s service during tough times, praising her work ethic and skill. He also thanked Evan for his contributions to legislation and regulation improvements.

Sam Hatcher has a focus on securities and commercial litigation, holding degrees from Dartmouth College and the University of Georgia. Christine Hayes has experience in governmental affairs and degrees from the University of Florida and Emory University. Rachel Byers has clerked for a Georgia Supreme Court Justice and holds degrees from the University of Georgia.

Poultry Permit Issue In Chattooga County Superior Court This Morning

A legal dispute is set to take place this morning at the Chattooga County courthouse, involving a Floyd County farmer, Dustin Smith, who is looking to build chicken houses in the Gore Community, neighboring landowners, and the county government. Rocking S. Farms LLC is seeking a court order against the county’s efforts to stop the construction of four chicken houses on Smith’s property. Smith obtained a permit last year, which former Commissioner Blake Elsberry claims was properly followed, while current Commissioner Andy Allen insists all regulations were not adhered to. Neighboring landowners, unhappy with the permit process, have hired legal counsel. They are concerned about the buildings’ location near a trout stream, homes, and a gas line. Summerville City Manager Jason Winters has expressed worry about potential risks linked to the gas line. The case will be heard at 10 AM in Chattooga County Superior Court, where each party will present its arguments.

Summerville City Council Meeting This Evening

The Summerville City Council will convene for its regular monthly meeting this evening at Summerville City Hall, starting at 5 PM. Community members are encouraged to attend and participate in a question-and-answer session beginning at 4:30 PM. Among the items for old business, the council will conduct the second reading and seek adoption of the Fiscal Year End (FYE) 2024 Year-End Budget Ordinance, followed by a similar discussion for the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Mid-Year Budget Ordinance. In addition to budgetary matters, the council will review and approve the meeting minutes from previous sessions held on January 13 and January 21, 2025. The agenda also includes a proposed payment of $52,852.56 to Consolidated Pipe for miscellaneous parts and fittings related to the well transmission line project. Other notable new business items involve the approval for the IT Administrator to surplus outdated equipment and arrangements for interim pay for the Accounts Payable Clerk due to the Payroll Clerk’s extended leave. Furthermore, the council will address updates to a policy concerning Protective Footwear and a policy related to Severe Weather and Emergency protocols. Lastly, the council will consider a mobile home request from Kaleb Park for a property located at 751 Martin Street.  WZQZ will broadcast the meeting on our Facebook Page.  You can see a copy of the agenda for tonight’s meeting below:

 

Chattooga Indians Varsity Boys Conclude Regular Season With Dominant Win Over Armuchee

The Chattooga Indians Varsity Boys basketball team finished their regular season with a strong win against Armuchee, ending with a score of 69-45. This victory brought their overall record to 21-4 and a region play record of 14-2. As they prepare for the upcoming region tournament at Gordon Central next week, players and fans are filled with excitement. The team has shown great talent, teamwork, and resilience all season. Several players have received recognition for their performances, with Dan Meyer named Player of the Year for his leadership and skills. Quarry Gibson was honored as a 1st Team selection, DJ Etchison earned 2nd Team honors, and Koi Dodd received Honorable Mention for his hard work.  The #2 Chattooga Varsity Boys will be in the semifinals in 7 AM Regional Tournament play this Thursday evening.  Meanwhile, the #3 Chattooga Varsity Girls basketball team will be taking on the winner of the Coosa vs. Dade County game that taking place this evening.  The Chattooga Varsity Girls will play tomorrow evening at 7:30 PM.  All Region 7A playoff tournament games are taking place at Gordon Central. Four Lady Indians have been selected for Region Honors with Addie Veatch and Gracelyn Rutledge earning First Team All-Region selections. Daysa Martin and Briana Finley received Honorable Mention.  Good luck to the Chattooga Indians as they move forward in the 7A Region Tournament.

House Fire In Menlo On Saturday Night

The Menlo Fire Department responded to a call about a house fire on Saturday evening at 3 Graham Street in Menlo.  Graham Street runs on the north side of Menlo City Hall and behind Lucky’s Supermarket.  Firefighters told WZQZ News that the fire started in the kitchen area of the home.  Thanks to the quick response of the Menlo Fire Department, the fire was contained in the kitchen area of the home.  No one was injured.

Rainy Weather Ahead

A line of rain is moving south over northern Georgia ahead of a cold front, which is expected to weaken as it progresses. The front will stall in central Georgia, and a weak low-pressure wave will push the front further south on Monday. Today, Northwest Georgia will see a chance of showers before 10 AM, then a slight chance of showers after 5 PM. Cloudy, to start the morning then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 62. North wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Tonight, a 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after 8 PM. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

A wedge of cooler air is expected to form in the far northeast corner by late Monday afternoon. Scattered rain is anticipated due to this boundary, primarily characterized by rain showers with a small chance of thunderstorms if there are breaks in the clouds. Temperatures will remain above normal throughout the day and night, with slightly cooler air in the northwest. As the front moves south on Monday, temperatures will be near normal.

Unsettled weather is expected for Northwest Georgia next week, with heavy rain and thunderstorms possible from Tuesday to Thursday. A cold air damming wedge will persist through at least Tuesday. A frontal system is expected to move into the region midweek, bringing warm, moist air and increasing rain chances. The heaviest rainfall is likely on Wednesday and Thursday, with expected totals of 2 to 5 inches, particularly in far North Georgia. Above normal temperatures will generally continue, except where the wedge causes cooler conditions.

Man Arrested For Public Intoxication After Incident At Amoco Gas Station

On Wednesday of last week, February 5th,  at approximately 9:24 PM, Summerville Police were dispatched to a call regarding a disturbance involving a white male, identified as 41-year-old Anthony Hines, at the Amoco station on Commerce Street. Reports indicated that Hines was consuming alcoholic beverages despite repeated requests from the store clerk to cease. Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed Hines exiting the store and entering a gray GMC Jimmy that was heading northbound on Commerce Street. The vehicle was stopped at the Fit Pit gym shortly thereafter. The driver of the GMC, Heather Lawson, informed officers that she was there to pick up Hines. During questioning, Hines admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages while at the Amoco. Due to his apparent intoxication and the circumstances, law enforcement took the decision to place him under arrest for public intoxication. Following his arrest, Hines was transported to Chattooga County jail for processing.

Walker County Commissioners Tackle Stray Animal Overpopulation With New Voucher Program

Walker County Commissioners are addressing the issue of stray and feral animals with a new surgical voucher program coordinated by Walker County Animal Control. During a meeting held last week, Walker County Commission Chairwoman Angie Teems thanked the community for their patience as the board discussed solutions. A previously proposed mandatory spay and neuter law was scrapped due to public opposition. Instead, 40 free spay and neuter vouchers will be available each month for newly adopted pets, funded by donations, with an estimated cost of $65,000. In other business, commissioners approved new mobile radios and vehicles, and a new wireless telecommunications facility in Chickamauga to improve 911 services and internet access to underserved areas. The next commission meeting is scheduled for March 6th at 6 PM.

LG Recalls 500,000 Electric Ranges

LG Electronics is recalling about 500,000 electric ranges because the front knobs can be accidentally turned on by people or pets. The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that the front knobs on these ranges can be activated by touch. The recall includes both slide-in and freestanding models.

There have been 86 reports of unintentional knob activation, leading to at least eight injuries and three pet deaths. The ranges, manufactured by LG Electronics Inc. of South Korea, were sold at major retailers and online from 2015 to January 2025, priced between $1,400 and $2,650.

Consumers can find model and serial numbers inside the oven door or drawer. LG offers a free warning label to remind users to use the control lock function. For questions, contact LG through their website or by calling 800-399-3265.

Black History Month Celebration - Saturday February 22nd

For the 4th year, the Chattooga County Democratic Party will sponsor a Black History Month celebration on Saturday, February 22 at 7 PM. The event, titled “Celebrating Our Heritage Through Poem and Song,” will once again feature local talent performing songs, dances and spoken word tributes to black history.

This special event will take place at the Chattooga County Civic Center in Summerville. This year, the Community Service Award will be presented to Maisha Ludy who is a Coordinator with Chattooga Family Connection, and in recognition of her many hours of service as a volunteer with charitable endeavors. The Community Spirit Award will be given to Janice Foster who is an active member of the MLK Committee, works with Camp Juliette Low, is a caregiver and shares her singing talent to uplift the community.

If you would like to perform at the event, please contact Pam Albert at (706) 859-8044 for more information on how to participate. Along with the entertainment, refreshments will also be provided. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend.

Don’t miss this wonderful evening of inspiration and joy celebrating our community’s accomplishments and talents.

Press Release

Highlands Writers Conference At GHC

The School of Humanities at Georgia Highlands College has opened registration for the eighth annual Highlands Writers Conference on March 8. It’s free for GHC students, staff, and faculty, while community registration is $50, including lunch. Virtual-only registration is $25. Keynote speaker Marcela Fuentes will present, and there will be virtual workshops available this year. See full details and a link to register below:

The School of Humanities at Georgia Highlands College (GHC) announces that registration is now open for the eighth annual Highlands Writers Conference. The event, held on the school’s Cartersville campus each spring, allows students and local writers to meet with and attend workshops given by professional writers.

This year’s conference will be held March 8 from 9AM to 4PM at the Cartersville site and is free to GHC students, staff and faculty. Registration is $50 for the community and includes lunch and a commemorative gift. Registration for virtual only participants is $25 and includes two online only workshops and a broadcast of the keynote speaker.

“Our conference allows our students, faculty and members of the community to meet and work with professional writers in an intimate setting right in their own neighborhood,” said Danielle Swanson, the director of the conference and the GHC English and Spanish Division Chair. “I’m particularly excited about this year’s keynote speaker and the changes we have made to the digital portion of the conference. It will be another excellent event for sure.”

Keynote speaker Marcela Fuentes’s debut novel “Malas” made a splash on the literary scene, winning multiple literary awards and being chosen as the June 2024 “Good Morning America” Book Club pick.

“This has such an excellent connection to our Latino Literature course,” said Swanson, adding the Dean of Humanities teaches that class and was instrumental in bringing Fuentes to the conference.

For the first time, the conference will offer virtual-only workshops in addition to the face-to-face sessions.

“This change is in direct response to feedback from last year’s event,” Swanson said.

The Cartersville campus is located at 5441 Highway 20 NE, Cartersville, GA 30121.

Learn more and register today at https://sites.highlands.edu/humanities/highlands-writers-conference/

Georgia DNR Asks Public's Help To Stop Invasive Snail Species

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) is urging anglers, boaters, and lake visitors to help stop the spread of invasive snail species. Recent studies show these snails can carry a worm that may cause illness in humans if consumed.  Recently a rat lungworm was discovered in Georgia.

WRD, along with researchers have found rat lungworm, a harmful parasite, in apple and mystery snails collected from various locations in Georgia. While the chance of infection is low, it can lead to serious health issues, including eosinophilic meningitis. This is only the second discovery of rat lungworm in Georgia, showing its presence in snails for the first time.

Apple and mystery snails are illegal to possess in Georgia since 2023. However, there are still concerns about their introduction into local waters. Taking actions like washing boats and not releasing non-native species can help prevent invasive species from becoming established. For further information, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/ans and the CDC website.

For more information on invasive species, including apple and mystery snails, and how to report sightings, visit GeorgiaWildlife.com/ans. For more information on rat lungworm and its potential health implications, contact the CDC at Rat Lungworm Disease (Angiostrongylus) | CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/angiostrongylus/about/index.html).