Local News | AM 1180 Radio

February 17, 2026

Warm, Springlike Weather Continues in Chattooga County Before Rain Returns Late Week

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Above-average temperatures will continue across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week, with the warmest weather expected on Thursday and Friday. Afternoon highs are forecast to reach the upper 60s and low 70s through midweek, then climb into the 70s by the end of the week, making it feel more like early spring than mid-February.

February 17, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

President Trump to Visit Rome on Thursday

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February 17, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

LaFayette Farmers Market Now Accepting Vendor Applications for 2026 Season

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LaFayette Farmers Market-GA is inviting local makers, growers, and producers to apply to become vendors for the 2026 market season. Market organizers say the LaFayette Farmers Market is a producer-only, community-centered market focused on supporting local agriculture, artisans, and small businesses—welcoming vendors who grow it, raise it, bake it, or make it.

All vendors, including those who participated in past seasons, are required to re-apply for 2026. The market will run Saturdays from April 25 through August 29, operating 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., rain or shine, in Downtown LaFayette, Georgia.

Vendor applications are available online HERE

February 17, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Georgia Gas Prices Rise to $2.72 a Gallon as Spring Maintenance Begins

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Fuel prices in Georgia moved higher this week, pushing the statewide average to $2.72 per gallon as of Monday, though drivers could still see day-to-day swings at the pump. AAA-The Auto Club Group says rising oil costs and the start of seasonal refinery maintenance are tightening supplies and nudging prices upward, even as winter weather has kept demand somewhat lower.

February 17, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Chattooga Teachers Named Georgia Science Teachers of the Year

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Two educators from the Chattooga County School District are being recognized statewide for excellence in science instruction. Erin Smith of Leroy Massey Elementary and Melissa Rowe of Chattooga High School have been named Georgia Science Teachers Association (GSTA) Science Teachers of the Year, earning top honors at the elementary and high school levels.

District leaders say Smith and Rowe were selected for their dedication, instructional leadership, and passion for engaging students in meaningful science learning. Their recognition, the district says, reflects the high-quality science instruction delivered across Chattooga County classrooms each day.

The GSTA Teacher of the Year Award honors educators with a proven record of excellence and impact on student learning. Award recipients receive a $1,500 honorarium and complimentary registration to the GSTA Annual Conference. The district is encouraging the community to join in congratulating both teachers on the achievement.

February 17, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Chattooga County Man Arrested on DUI and Reckless Driving Charges

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A Chattooga County man was arrested earlier this month following a traffic stop that led to multiple charges, including Driving Under the Influence, according to an arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office.

February 17, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

WZQZ Pet of the Week: Meet Kevin, a Playful Pup Looking for a Forever Home

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This week’s WZQZ Pet of the Week is Kevin — a happy, playful pup with a big smile who’s ready to find his forever home. Kevin is a neutered male who’s described as sweet and loving, and he gets along great with toys and other dogs, making him a wonderful fit for an active family or anyone looking for a friendly companion.

Kevin is currently available for adoption at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville. The shelter is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Wednesdays by appointment, and the shelter also opens the first Saturday of every month for adoptions only. To learn more about Kevin or to start the adoption process, call 706-857-0679.

February 17, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Man Arrested After Scissors Attack; Faces Multiple Felony Charges in Gordon County

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A violent attack in Gordon County late last week ended with a Plainville man behind bars after deputies say he assaulted a woman at her home with a pair of scissors, then fled the scene.

February 17, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Traffic Advisory: Lane Reduction Scheduled on Rome Boulevard at Railroad Tracks in Summerville

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Motorists traveling through Summerville should prepare for delays beginning Tuesday morning as road work impacts a major route inside the city limits. Officials say traffic on Rome Boulevard/Highway 27 at the railroad tracks will be reduced to one lane starting February 17, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

An estimated time for full reopening has not been announced. Drivers are encouraged to plan alternate routes, expect delays, and use caution while traveling through the work zone.

The advisory was issued by Pamela M. Vaughn, Director of the Chattooga County Emergency Management Agency, Mapping and Addressing, Deputy Director of Chattooga County E-911, and Chattooga County Safety Coordinator.

February 16, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Arrest Report – Monday – February 16, 2026

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Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, February 16, 2026: