The Georgia Senate has passed a bill that would eliminate state income taxes on military retirement benefits, marking a significant step towards providing financial relief to veterans. The bill, a version originating from the Georgia House of Representatives, received Senate approval on Friday, paving the way for its return to the House for final consideration.
The Summerville Veterinary Clinic responded to allegations on social media about the ownership and care of a dog with a gunshot wound to the face.
A former Lyerly Fire Chief has passed away. Ronald “Ronnie” Daine Stephens, a devoted veteran, firefighter, and respected community member, died peacefully at home on March 20, 2025, at the age of 76. He was born on August 19, 1948, in Rome, GA, to Harbin Monroe and Ethel Lee Green Stephens. Mr. Stephens served in the U. S. Army and was a retired employee of Consolidated Freightways. A 1966 graduate of Chattooga High School, he continued to support his alma mater and served on the Class of 1970 Board in memory of his late wife, Sharon Norton Stephens. He dedicated 52 years to firefighting, including serving as Fire Chief for both the Lyerly and Powdersville, SC Fire Departments, as well as working with the Anderson County Hazardous Materials Team. Also, he was a dedicated worker with the Summerville Main Street Program. He was active in several organizations and is survived by his family. Funeral services will be on March 25, 2025, at Mason Funeral Home Chapel.
Rocking S Farm, LLC’s attempt to challenge Chattooga County’s ordinance regarding commercial poultry operations has been dealt a blow in the Superior Court of Chattooga County. In a ruling issued by Judge Don Thompson denied the farm’s request for a preliminary injunction and a declaratory judgment against the county’s ordinance. The legal battle, Civil Action File No. 2025CA45724, pitted Rocking S Farm, LLC against Andy Allen, in his official capacity as the sole county commissioner of Chattooga County.
The Walker County Animal Shelter is inviting the community to a free Vaccine Clinic and Adoption Event this Saturday, March 22nd, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at the shelter’s location at 5488 North Marble Top Road, Chickamauga. No appointments are necessary. The shelter will be offering free DHPP vaccines for dogs and FVRCP vaccines for cats. Microchips will also be available for just $10. Pet owners are reminded that dogs must be kept on a leash and cats must be secured in a carrier for the safety of all animals and attendees. In addition to the free vaccine clinic, the shelter is waiving adoption fees for all animals. This is a fantastic opportunity to find a new furry friend and provide a loving home for a deserving animal. While adoption fees are waived, donations to support the shelter’s ongoing efforts are always greatly appreciated.
Walker County Fire Rescue crews continued to work multiple brush fires on Tuesday evening that were sparked along a four-mile stretch from Rossville to near Chickamauga.
The Summerville Fire Department responded to a fire that threatened a residence on Memorial Drive on Tuesday afternoon.
The call came in reporting a fully involved fire in an outbuilding that had spread into the surrounding woods. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a challenging scene with heavy smoke and flames emanating from the outbuilding, the exterior of the adjacent home, and a portion of the nearby wooded area.
Through quick and coordinated action, firefighters successfully extinguished the blazes, containing the fire and preventing it from spreading inside the residence. Hays Correctional and the Trion Fire Department assisted.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. No injuries were reported.
The Summerville Fire Department is reminding residents to exercise caution with potential fire hazards and to ensure they have working smoke detectors in their homes.
An investigation is underway into an alleged physical altercation on Monday, March 3rd that involved Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen. According to reports from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to 422 Little Sand Mountain Rd. at approximately 7:12 AM in response to a report of a domestic dispute.
An altercation between Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen and a truck driver from Kentucky led to law enforcement intervention on Gore Subligna Road Monday morning. Commissioner Allen reportedly confronted the driver, identified as William Wilson of Kentucky, over concerns that the truck was creating a hazardous situation for local commuters. The details of the ensuing disagreement remain unclear. Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader addressed the situation in a statement released to local media on Tuesday. “Yesterday morning, shortly before 8 AM, deputies were dispatched to Little Sand Mountain road regarding a dispute between two people. Deputies spoke with both individuals, William Wilson of Kentucky, and Andy Allen of Summerville. Based on the allegations that were made and in the interest of transparency, I have asked Sheriff Steve Wilson of Walker County for assistance by having his office investigate the incident. Once this investigation is complete, more information may be released.” Due to potential conflicts of interest, Sheriff Schrader has requested the Walker County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Steve Wilson, to conduct an independent investigation into the matter. This measure aims to ensure a transparent and impartial assessment of the events. WZQZ News is closely following this developing story and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Georgia drivers are seeing a slight reprieve at the pump this week, with average gas prices declining marginally compared to last week. Georgians are currently paying an average of $2.99 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline, though this price is subject to change.
